Preliminary studies on compatibility between high yield levels and the well-being of dairy cows

摘要

After centuries of intensive plant and animal genetic selection aimed at increasing productivity, some reasons for concern have emerged. In livestock production, ethical reasons also require reflection. Rollin (2001) states that high yield could per se compromise dairy cow welfare and is, however, responsible for health disorders with discomfort and worsening of milk quality. We have already rejected these a-priori statements arguing at a theoretical level (Bertoni and Calamari, 2001) as well as providing empirical data (Trevisi et al., 2001). To corroborate our hypothesis we submit the case of a dairy herd monitored (i.e. health, performances and metabolic profile) for 12 months, before and after the correction of various managerial errors.