Cattle breeding requires careful attention to several key factors, starting with the observation of estrus. The duration of estrus in cows is typically short, averaging around 18 hours. However, about 25% of cows show estrus for less than 8 hours, and their symptoms are often more pronounced during the early morning hours. Approximately 65% of cows exhibit estrus between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m., with the most intense signs occurring between 8 p.m. and 3 a.m. Most cows ovulate 7 to 14 hours after estrus ends, but about 20% may ovulate earlier or later. It's also reported that up to 20% of cows may experience false heat due to incorrect identification of estrus signs, while 5 to 7% of pregnant cows can still show estrus.
Timely artificial insemination is crucial for improving conception rates. Cows usually ovulate after estrus ends, and the lifespan of an egg is around 6 to 10 hours. Therefore, the best time for breeding is approximately 6 to 7 hours before ovulation. In practice, insemination should be performed when the following signs are observed: the cow becomes more stable, genital swelling decreases, the cervix slightly contracts, mucus volume reduces and becomes cloudy, and the follicle becomes thin and elastic with visible fluid movement.
To enhance the effectiveness of insemination, uterine cleaning is recommended. This can be done by using erythromycin (1 million IU) diluted in 40 ml of distilled water. Neostigmine sulfate injection, given 8 to 10 hours before mating, along with a mixture of penicillin (800,000 IU) and normal saline (30–50 ml), can also help improve fertility outcomes.
Nutritional management plays a vital role in reproductive success. Providing balanced and adequate nutrition is especially important for high-yield animals like dairy cows. Proper protein, vitamins, and minerals must be supplied to support both maintenance and fetal development. Overfeeding, however, can lead to issues such as reduced libido in bulls and irregular estrus in cows. Maintaining optimal body condition is essential to avoid overfatness or undernourishment.
Environmental management is equally important. Cows are sensitive to extreme temperatures, with heat being more harmful than cold. During hot seasons, measures like shading, cooling baths, and improved ventilation should be implemented to prevent heat stress. Monitoring estrus patterns and promptly examining cows that have had abortions is also critical for maintaining herd health.
Postpartum care is another key aspect. Administering colostrum or amniotic fluid after birth can aid in placental expulsion and promote uterine recovery, which helps shorten the calving interval. A well-structured herd with the right proportion of breeding females is essential for long-term productivity. For example, dairy farms should aim for 50–70% of cows in the breeding group, while beef cattle operations may require 40–60%.
Infertility in cattle can stem from various causes, including congenital abnormalities, infectious diseases, and poor management. Identifying and eliminating infertile animals early is crucial. Infectious diseases like brucellosis or trichomoniasis require strict biosecurity measures and prompt treatment. Non-infectious conditions such as uterine inflammation should be managed through proper husbandry, hormonal treatments, and targeted interventions.
By focusing on these aspects—estrus detection, timely insemination, nutrition, environment, postpartum care, and disease prevention—cattle farmers can significantly improve reproductive efficiency and overall herd performance.
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