Technical points for preventing and treating infertility in cows
2025-09-08 07:13:39
Cow infertility is a significant issue in the dairy industry, affecting cows that have reached breeding age or those that have recently given birth. It refers to the inability of cows to conceive even after multiple breeding attempts, leading to extended calving intervals and reduced productivity. Infertile cows often lose their economic value and are forced out of the herd, causing substantial financial losses for farmers. Poor management practices, such as improper feeding, failure to detect estrus, and inadequate breeding techniques, can further reduce profitability and discourage farmers from raising cattle. To address this problem and help farmers improve reproductive performance, several key technical measures should be considered.
First, strengthening feeding management is crucial. Overfeeding with concentrated feed can lead to obesity, which disrupts normal estrus cycles and reduces fertility. High-producing dairy cows are especially at risk, as excessive concentrate may cause metabolic disorders that affect both fertility and calf development. In addition, some farmers use straw treated with herbicides, which can result in abortion and long-term infertility. This issue requires further research. Proper nutrition is essential—cows should receive balanced diets rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals like calcium and phosphorus. Diversified feeding, including green forage and quality hay, helps maintain health. Farmers should avoid using weedy or moldy straw. Regular exercise and sun exposure also play a role in preventing infertility. Cows should be allowed to walk for about an hour daily, especially in the afternoon and evening. They should receive 16 hours of sunlight per day, either naturally or through artificial lighting. Daily brushing improves circulation and keeps the animals clean. The barn environment must remain clean, dry, and well-ventilated to prevent disease and ensure comfort.
Second, proper care during the calving period is vital. The postpartum recovery of the cow directly affects her future reproductive performance. It is important to avoid unnecessary interventions during natural labor, unless a veterinarian is involved. Sanitation is key—operators should wash their arms, disinfect tools, and clean the cow’s hindquarters with antiseptic solutions. A veterinarian should assess fetal position to prevent injury and infection. In many cases, untrained individuals perform midwifery, leading to genital infections and infertility. For example, in Anda City, over 60% of infertility cases were linked to improper birthing practices. Prompt treatment of retained placentas is also necessary. If the placenta does not pass naturally, antibiotics should be administered into the uterus. This should continue until vaginal discharge clears. After delivery, regular health checks are required. Vaginal exams should begin 10 days post-calving, and cows should not be bred until they meet three criteria: good appetite, normal lactation, and clear vaginal secretions.
Third, accurately identifying estrus is essential for successful breeding. Cows typically show signs of heat 20–30 days after calving. These signs include restlessness, decreased appetite, frequent urination, tail lifting, and swollen vulva with mucus discharge. Farmers should observe these behaviors carefully, especially in the early morning and late evening. If a cow does not show estrus, a vaginal or rectal exam can help determine the cause. Hormonal treatments, such as pregnant mare serum, can stimulate estrus and improve breeding success.
Finally, timely and accurate breeding is critical. Breeding should occur when the cow is in peak estrus, and breeders must maintain detailed records. Artificial insemination should follow strict hygiene protocols, with high-quality semen and precise timing. For cows that fail to conceive after two or three attempts, adding penicillin during insemination may increase conception rates. By implementing these strategies, farmers can significantly improve reproductive efficiency and reduce economic losses due to infertility.
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