The effect of lameness on oestrus activity in high yielding Holstein-Friesian dairy cattle with access to pasture

摘要

Step counts for lame and non-lame dairy cattle increased during oestrus. Lame cattle had significantly reduced lying times compared with non-lame cows.Introduction Increasing global demand for dairy products has subsequently increased production goals from dairy farmers. Modern high yielding Holstein Friesian dairy cows have been reported to have reduced intensity of oestrus, thus making fertility an ongoing issue in the dairy sector. Additionally, lameness affects dairy herds worldwide (Green et al., 2014), which may further exacerbate fertility issues, and could adversely affect animal welfare and increase costs through premature culling and additional veterinary treatment. Lameness has been reported to affect oestrous behaviour, however the incidence of oestrus remains unaffected (Walker et al., 2010). Additionally, Blackie et al. (2011) reported that lame cows increase their lying time when compared with non-lame cows. This could directly influence oestrus behaviour as the time available to express oestrus is reduced. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of lameness on oestrous activity in dairy cattle.