Effects of Health Conditions on Dairy Cow Ovulation
Author Information
Author(s): M.J. Morris, S.L. Walker, D.N. Jones, J.E. Routly, R.F. Smith, H. Dobson
Primary Institution: University of Liverpool
Hypothesis
Dairy cows with the most common production conditions (high SCC, low body condition and/or lameness) have smaller follicles growing at a slower rate, ultimately resulting in a lower proportion of ovulations than in healthy counterparts living in the same environment.
Conclusion
Lameness reduces the proportion of cows that ovulated, and the combination of high somatic cell count and lameness further decreases this proportion.
Supporting Evidence
- Fewer lame cows ovulated compared to non-lame animals.
- The combination of high SCC and lameness further reduced the likelihood of ovulation.
- Follicular growth rates were similar regardless of health conditions.
Takeaway
If a cow is sick or hurt, it might not be able to have babies as easily. This study looked at how being sick or hurt affects cows' ability to have babies.
Methodology
The study monitored 74 dairy cows for somatic cell count, body condition, and lameness, using ultrasonography to assess follicular growth and ovulation after hormonal synchronization.
Potential Biases
The study was conducted on commercial farms, which may introduce management-related biases.
Limitations
The study was conducted over a relatively short period, which may limit the detection of changes in body condition score.
Participant Demographics
90 multiparous lactating Holstein cows, average milk yield of 8800 kg per lactation.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.006
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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