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Mansour N, AlKhateeb R, Lamghari F. Impact of parity on prepartum activities and behaviour in dromedary camels under farm conditions. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14572. [PMID: 38698636 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
This study was conducted to assess the disparities in camel activities such as eating, drinking, sitting, standing, and sleeping between primiparous and multiparous females before parturition using computer vision. Also, any extraordinary behaviours during the final 2 h before parturition and the necessary manual interventions were meticulously recorded. Five primiparous (age: 4.5-7 years) and 7 multiparous (age: 8-14 years; parity: 2.1 ± 1.5) dromedary camels, were included in this study. Pre-partum females were housed double in a parturition pen provided with two Reolink RLC-810A cameras and the data were collected and recorded for each female. Two primiparous and 1 multiparous female required assistance in pulling the calf from both forelimbs to complete their parturition (27.3%). The drinking and sleeping activities were similar in primiparous and multiparous females during the recorded 32 h leading up to calving. Only eating activity exhibited a longer period in primiparous females compared to multiparous females specifically during the 12-h before calving. Sitting activity was longer, and standing activity was shorter in multiparous than in primiparous females during the 24, 12, and 6 h before calving. All parturient camels, whether primiparous or multiparous, exhibited signs of distress. Some extraordinary behaviours were observed, such as two multiparous females attempting to deter their primiparous counterparts from eating. Additionally, three females displayed a distinctive standing position on their knees while their hind limbs were in a complete standing position for 3-5 min before transitioning to sitting or standing positions. Furthermore, one primiparous female stood while the head and forelimbs of the calf partially protruded from her vulva. In conclusion, the application of computer vision and deep learning technology proves valuable for observing prepartum camels under farm conditions, potentially reducing economic losses stemming from delayed human intervention in dystocia cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabil Mansour
- Fujairah Research Centre (FRC), Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kafrelsheikh University, Kafr El Sheikh, Egypt
| | - Rama AlKhateeb
- Fujairah Research Centre (FRC), Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
| | - Fouad Lamghari
- Fujairah Research Centre (FRC), Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
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2
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Kojima T, Huang CY, Yayou KI. Heart rate variability and behavioral alterations during prepartum period in dairy cows as predictors of calving: a preliminary study. Anim Biosci 2024; 37:944-951. [PMID: 38271967 PMCID: PMC11065709 DOI: 10.5713/ab.23.0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Parturition is crucial for dams, their calves, and cow managers. The prediction of calving time, which assists cow managers to decide on the relocation of cows to maternity pens and necessity of human supervision, is a pivotal aspect of livestock farming. However, existing methods of predicting calving time in dairy cows based on hormonal changes and clinical symptoms are time-consuming and yield unreliable predictions. Accordingly, we investigated whether heart rate variability (HRV) which is a non-invasive assessment of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and behavior during the prepartum period would be useful for predicting calving time in dairy cows. METHODS Eight pregnant cows were surveilled under electrocardiogram and video recordings for HRV and behavioral analyses, respectively. HRV parameters in time and frequency domains were evaluated. A 24-h time budget was calculated for each of six types of behavior (standing and lying with or without rumination, sleeping, and eating). RESULTS Heart rate on calving day is considerably higher than those recorded on the days preceding calving. Low frequency power declined, whereas high frequency power escalated on the calving day compared to the period between 24 and 48 h before calving. The time budget for ruminating while lying decreased and that while standing increased markedly on the calving day compared to those allocated on the preceding days; nonetheless, the total time budget for ruminating did not differ during the prepartum period. CONCLUSION We elucidated the ANS activity and behavioral profiles during prepartum period. Our results confirm that HRV parameters and behavior are useful for predicting calving time, and interestingly indicate that the time budget for ruminating while standing (or lying) may serve as a valuable predictor of calving. Collectively, our findings lay the foundation for future investigations to determine other potential predictors and formulate an algorithm for predicting calving time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoki Kojima
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0901,
Japan
- Animal Husbandry Division, Aichi Agricultural Research Center, Nagakute, Aichi, 480-1193,
Japan
| | - Chen-Yu Huang
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0901,
Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Yayou
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, 305-0901,
Japan
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Robi DT, Bogale A, Temteme S, Aleme M, Urge B. Using participatory epidemiology to investigate the causes of cattle abortion in Southwest Ethiopia. Heliyon 2024; 10:e25726. [PMID: 38390138 PMCID: PMC10881556 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e25726] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Cattle abortion, stemming from both infectious and non-infectious causes, lead to notable financial setbacks in the cattle industry. Between October 2020 and October 2021, an epidemiological investigation took place in Southwest Ethiopia. The objective was to determine the magnitude and seasonal occurrence of the presumed causes of cattle abortion. Information for this research was collected through 30 group discussions, each involving 8-12 participants. Various participatory epidemiological tools, including semi-structured interviews, pairwise ranking, matrix scoring, proportional piling, and seasonal calendars, were employed in the designated areas. By employing the pairwise ranking approach, the relative significance of presumed causes contributing to cattle abortion was established. The identified major presumed causes of cattle abortion, listed in increasing order of importance, were blackleg, foot-and-mouth disease, pasteurellosis, lumpy skin disease, listeriosis, trypanosomosis, Q fever, leptospirosis, and brucellosis. Participants identified brucellosis (6.1%), leptospirosis (6.0%), and Q-fever (5.7%) as the primary presumed causes of abortion, determined through proportional piling. Matrix scoring analysis indicated a robust agreement (W = 0.464-0.989; P < 0.001) among different informant groups regarding both the presumed causes of abortion and the associated clinical signs. Brucellosis and Q-fever were perceived to be more prevalent during the dry season, while leptospirosis, listeriosis, and lumpy skin disease were associated with the wet, hot, and rainy seasons. However, Pasteurellosis, blackleg, and physical/mechanical factors were deemed to be consistently encountered causes of abortion throughout the year. The patterns of seasonal occurrence of suspected abortion causes were widely acknowledged across informant groups (W = 0.977-0.863; P < 0.001). Local practices involving herbal remedies and traditional methods were employed by participants to manage cattle abortion. Moreover, the results underscore the necessity for additional laboratory research to pinpoint the exact causes of abortion in the study areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dereje Tulu Robi
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Ararsa Bogale
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
| | - Shiferaw Temteme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Melkam Aleme
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Tepi Agricultural Research Center, P.O Box: 34, Tepi, Ethiopia
| | - Beksisa Urge
- Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Holeta Agricultural Research Center, P.O. Box 2003, Holeta, Ethiopia
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Spitzer HB, Meagher RK, Lynne O’Sullivan M, Montelpare W, Gordon MB, McKenna SLB, Proudfoot KL. The effect of a hiding space on the behaviour and heart rate variability of dairy calves during temporary separation from the dam. Anim Welf 2024; 33:e2. [PMID: 38487788 PMCID: PMC10936337 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2023.100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
In natural settings, newborn calves hide for several days before joining the herd. It is unclear whether dairy calves housed indoors would show similar hiding behaviour. This study aimed to describe the use of an artificial hide provided to calves during temporary separation from the dam and assess the effect it has on lying and sleep-like behaviour, as well as heart rate variability (HRV). Twenty-eight cow-calf pairs were randomly assigned to having a hide (n = 14), or no hide (n = 14). Hide use (n = 14), as well as lying and sleep-like behaviour (n = 28), were recorded continuously via video camera during the first hour after the dam was removed for morning milking on day three to seven. Heart rate and R-R intervals were recorded using Polar equine monitors for a subsample of 12 calves (n = 6 per treatment) on day six. Descriptive statistics were calculated for hide use. Wilcoxon Signed Rank tests were used to evaluate whether having a hide affected lying and sleep-like behaviours as well as HRV. Hide use decreased over days and was highly variable between calves. Lying behaviour did not differ between treatments. Duration of sleep-like behaviour was higher for calves without a hide compared to those with a hide. Calves with a hide tended to show signs of higher HRV and parasympathetic activity compared to calves without a hide. Results suggest that providing a hiding space to young calves may be beneficial during periods when the cow is removed from the pen for milking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B Spitzer
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Rebecca K Meagher
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, 62 Cumming Drive, Bible Hill, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - M Lynne O’Sullivan
- Department of Companion Animals, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada
| | - William Montelpare
- Health Research Network, Applied Human Sciences, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Miriam B Gordon
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Faculty of Agriculture, Dalhousie University, 62 Cumming Drive, Bible Hill, Nova Scotia, Canada
| | - Shawn LB McKenna
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Kathryn L Proudfoot
- Department of Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, Canada
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5
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Bertelsen M, Vaarst M. Shaping cow-calf contact systems: Farmers' motivations and considerations behind a range of different cow-calf contact systems. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:7769-7785. [PMID: 37641296 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-23148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Most dairy farms rear calves artificially by separating the newly born calf from the dam and feeding the calf milk from a bucket. However, the general public and scientific community have begun to question the effects of artificial rearing on animal welfare. Research so far has focused mainly on dam-calf contact, where each cow takes care of her own calf. However, previous studies show that Danish and other European farmers are using and showing interest in a variety of different cow-calf contact (CCC) systems. In the present study, we used qualitative research methods to explore the perspectives of Danish farmers who either had or had tried to establish a version of a CCC system. Farmers were asked about their motivation for establishing the system, what had shaped the system to its current form, and how they perceived the calves to benefit from the system. Practical considerations was the theme most commonly brought up and related to both why farmers chose to have CCC in the first place and in what way they had chosen to organize their CCC system. Practical considerations included a sense of ease, flexibility, and a more natural and therefore rational approach. The economy was also a repeated theme, but although the economy to a large degree shapes the type of CCC chosen (dam-calf contact or foster cow contact), it was rarely mentioned in relation to choosing a CCC system in the first place. Ethical considerations were a strong motivator for farmers with dam-calf contact systems, although less so for farmers with foster cow contact. The farm's image as seen by the consumer was an important motivation for farmers with many on-farm visitors, and with the farm's image in the eyes of the farming community potentially also influencing farmers. Farmers generally perceived the calves to benefit from the care of the cow and no difference was seen in the importance attributed to care, between farmers choosing dam-calf contact and foster cow systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Bertelsen
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | - Mette Vaarst
- Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
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6
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Jensen MB, Franchi GA, Schumacher M, Proudfoot K. Do calves hide after birth? Postpartum behavior of dairy calves and their dams housed in individual calving pens. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2023; 4:474-478. [PMID: 38045895 PMCID: PMC10692334 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2022-0364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023]
Abstract
Under near-natural conditions, domesticated dairy calves hide the first days after birth before cow and calf join the herd. In commercial dairy production, an opportunity to seclude from the herd after parturition is rarely given. This study aimed to investigate the effect of providing a covered area in an individual calving pen on maternal and neonatal calf behavior. Forty-six cow-calf pairs were housed in either an individual uncovered calving pen with 4 open sides or an individual partially covered calving pen with 3 covered sides, providing a secluded area for the cow and calf. Calf position in the pen, maternal behavior, and proximity between the cow and calf were recorded for the first 72 h after birth using instantaneous sampling at 5-min intervals. Data were analyzed using linear mixed effect models. The duration of maternal sniffing and licking, the duration of time the cow spent standing with her head over the calf, and the time spent in close proximity to the calf were higher during the first 24 h after birth compared with later days, reflecting intense maternal behavior during this early period. Calves did not show a preference for staying in the covered side of the pen. Calves in covered pens received more maternal sniffing and licking, indicating that the provision of cover postpartum facilitated maternal behavior and the formation of the maternal-filial bond the first few days after birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Bak Jensen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Guilherme A. Franchi
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Maike Schumacher
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Kathryn Proudfoot
- Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown C1A4P3, Canada
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7
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Proudfoot KL. ADSA Foundation Scholar Award: What makes for a good life for transition dairy cows? Current research and future directions. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:5896-5907. [PMID: 37479580 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2022-23194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/20/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
Dairy cows experience several challenges during the transition period, historically defined as the 3 wk before to 3 wk after calving. During this 6-wk window, cows undergo a series of social, nutritional, and physical changes that affect their quality of life. Cows are also at the highest risk of becoming ill in the days and weeks after calving compared with any other period in their adult life. Because of this, the transition cow has been a central focus of dairy cattle research for at least the last 50 yr, with much of this work targeted at identifying, treating, and preventing postpartum disease. However, understanding what makes for a good life for transition cows requires consideration of more than just their health. When considering a cow's welfare, we must also include her emotional experiences and ability to live a reasonably natural life. To gain a broader perspective on the welfare of transition cows that goes beyond their health, continued inter- and transdisciplinary approaches are needed. The aims of this narrative review are to (1) describe a framework used to study animal welfare, which includes different perspectives on what makes for a good life for animals using examples from transition cow research, (2) summarize the advancements we have made in developing our understanding of the welfare of transition dairy cows over the last several decades, (3) identify gaps in the literature and propose new and continued topics for research, and (4) suggest a path forward for researchers, including the use of methods from both the natural and social sciences to rethink existing problems, understanding barriers to adoption of evidence-based practice, and prepare for future challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Proudfoot
- Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, C1A4P3, Canada.
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8
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García García MJ, Maroto Molina F, Pérez Marín CC, Pérez Marín DC. Potential for automatic detection of calving in beef cows grazing on rangelands from Global Navigate Satellite System collar data. Animal 2023; 17:100901. [PMID: 37480757 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2023.100901] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 06/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Dystocia is one of the main causes of calf death around calving. In addition, peripartum deaths may occur due to other factors, such as weather or predators, especially in the case of grazing animals. Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) tools aimed at the automatic detection of calving may be useful for farmers, allowing cow assistance in case of dystocia or checking the condition of the cow-calf pair after calving. Such PLF systems are commercially available for dairy cows, but these tools are not suitable for rangelands, mainly due to power and connectivity constraints. Thus, since most commercial PLF tools for rangelands are based on Global Navigate Satellite System (GNSS) technology, the objective of this study was to design and evaluate several indicators built from data gathered with GNSS collars to characterise their potential for the detection of calving on rangelands. Location data from 57 cows, 42 of which calved during the study, were curated and analysed following a standardised procedure. Several indicators were calculated using two different strategies. The first approach consisted of having indicators that could be computed using the data of a single GNSS collar (cow indicators). The second strategy involved the use of data from several animals (herd indicators), which requires more animals to be monitored, but may allow the characterisation of social behaviour. Several indicators, such as the length of the daily trajectory or the sinuosity of cow path, showed significant differences between the pre- and postpartum periods, but no clear differences between calving day and previous days. Herd indicators, such as the distance to herd centroid or to the nearest peer were superior in terms of the detection of calving day, as cows showed isolation behaviour from 24 hours before calving. Relative indicators, i.e., the value of cow or herd indicators for the calving cow in relation to the average value of the same indicators for its herdmates, provided additional information on cow behaviour. For instance, according to the relative indicator for the change in daily trajectory, pregnant cows had a differential exploratory behaviour up to 14 days before calving. In conclusion, data from commercial GNSS collars proved to be useful for the computation of several indicators related to the occurrence of calving on rangelands. Some of those indicators showed changes from baseline values on the day before calving, which could serve to predict the onset of parturition.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J García García
- Department of Animal Production, School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Madrid-Cadiz Rd. km 396, 14071 Cordoba, Spain
| | - F Maroto Molina
- Department of Animal Production, School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Madrid-Cadiz Rd. km 396, 14071 Cordoba, Spain.
| | - C C Pérez Marín
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Madrid-Cadiz Rd. km 396, 14071 Cordoba, Spain
| | - D C Pérez Marín
- Department of Animal Production, School of Agricultural and Forestry Engineering, University of Cordoba, Campus de Rabanales, Madrid-Cadiz Rd. km 396, 14071 Cordoba, Spain
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Vicentini RR, El Faro L, Ujita A, Ceballos MC, Negrão JA, Sant’Anna AC. Effects of Training for First Milking Involving Positive Tactile Stimulation on Post-Calving Maternal Behaviors in Primiparous Gyr Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13050921. [PMID: 36899778 PMCID: PMC10000114 DOI: 10.3390/ani13050921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/08/2023] Open
Abstract
In dairy systems with Zebu breeds, calves are not immediately separated from their dams after calving; consequently, maternal care and protective behavior are important, influencing both productive performance and stockpeople's safety. Our objectives were to: (1) investigate the effects of a training protocol involving pre-calving positive stimulation, delivered prior to calving, on the maternal care of primiparous Gyr cows; and (2) evaluate the effects of this training protocol on maternal protective behavior towards handlers during the first calf handling. Primiparous dairy Gyr cows (n = 37) were allocated into two groups: training (n = 16) and control (n = 21). Animal behaviors were recorded in three periods: post-calving, first calf handling, and post-handling. Maternal protective behavior during calf handling was assessed from measures of aggressiveness, attention, displacement, and agitation. Calf latency to stand up (p < 0.01) and sex (p < 0.01) differed between the training and control groups. The training group had less touching (p = 0.03), more time not interacting with the calf (p = 0.03), tended to be less protective (p = 0.056), and moved less (p < 0.01) during the first handling of their calves. In conclusion, the primiparous dairy Gyr cows subjected to pre-calving training protocol displayed less maternal care and displacement during the first handling of their calves and tended to be less protective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rogério Ribeiro Vicentini
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biodiversidade e Conservação da Natureza, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF), Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil
- Correspondence:
| | - Lenira El Faro
- Centro Avançado de Pesquisa de Bovinos de Corte, Instituto de Zootecnia (IZ)–Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios/Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento (APTA/SAA), Sertãozinho 14160-970, SP, Brazil
| | - Aska Ujita
- Centro Avançado de Pesquisa de Bovinos de Corte, Instituto de Zootecnia (IZ)–Agência Paulista de Tecnologia dos Agronegócios/Secretaria de Agricultura e Abastecimento (APTA/SAA), Sertãozinho 14160-970, SP, Brazil
| | | | - João Alberto Negrão
- Faculdade de Zootecnia e Engenharia de Alimentos (FZEA), Departamento de Ciências Básicas, Universidade de São Paulo (USP), Pirassununga 13635-900, SP, Brazil
| | - Aline Cristina Sant’Anna
- Núcleo de Estudos em Etologia e Bem-estar Animal (NEBEA), Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora (UFJF), CNPq Researcher, Juiz de Fora 36036-900, MG, Brazil
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Marcet-Rius M, Bienboire-Frosini C, Lezama-García K, Domínguez-Oliva A, Olmos-Hernández A, Mora-Medina P, Hernández-Ávalos I, Casas-Alvarado A, Gazzano A. Clinical Experiences and Mechanism of Action with the Use of Oxytocin Injection at Parturition in Domestic Animals: Effect on the Myometrium and Fetuses. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:ani13040768. [PMID: 36830555 PMCID: PMC9952595 DOI: 10.3390/ani13040768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2022] [Revised: 02/15/2023] [Accepted: 02/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxytocin is a key hormone for parturition and maternal traits in animals. During the peripartum period, the levels of endogenous oxytocin dictate physiological events such as myometrial contractions, prostaglandin production with the subsequent increase in oxytocin receptors, and the promotion of lactation when administered immediately after birth. While this hormone has some benefits regarding these aspects, the exogenous administration of oxytocin has been shown to have detrimental effects on the fetus, such as asphyxia, meconium staining, ruptured umbilical cords, and more dystocia cases in females. This review aims to analyze the main effects of oxytocin on myometrial activity during parturition, and its potential favorable and negative administration effects reflected in the fetus health of domestic animals. In conclusion, it is convenient to know oxytocin's different effects as well as the adequate doses and the proper moment to administrate it, as it can reduce labor duration, but it can also increase dystocia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Míriam Marcet-Rius
- Animal Behaviour and Welfare Department, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
- Correspondence: (M.M.-R.); (A.D.-O.)
| | - Cécile Bienboire-Frosini
- Department of Molecular Biology and Chemical Communication, Research Institute in Semiochemistry and Applied Ethology (IRSEA), 84400 Apt, France
| | - Karina Lezama-García
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Adriana Domínguez-Oliva
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
- Correspondence: (M.M.-R.); (A.D.-O.)
| | - Adriana Olmos-Hernández
- Division of Biotechnology—Bioterio and Experimental Surgery, Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación-Luis Guillermo Ibarra Ibarra (INR-LGII), Tlalpan, Mexico City 14389, Mexico
| | - Patricia Mora-Medina
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Cuautitlán 54714, Mexico
| | - Ismael Hernández-Ávalos
- Facultad de Estudios Superiores Cuautitlán, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de Mexico (UNAM), Cuautitlán 54714, Mexico
| | - Alejandro Casas-Alvarado
- Neurophysiology, Behavior and Animal Welfare Assessment, DPAA, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana, Xochimilco Campus, Mexico City 04960, Mexico
| | - Angelo Gazzano
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Pisa, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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Nevard RP, Pant SD, Broster JC, Norman ST, Stephen CP. Maternal Behavior in Beef Cattle: The Physiology, Assessment and Future Directions-A Review. Vet Sci 2022; 10:vetsci10010010. [PMID: 36669011 PMCID: PMC9863767 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10010010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 12/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Bovine maternal behavior is known to be influenced by a variety of factors including hormonal mediation, breed, age, parity, host genetics and general management practices. Following centuries of varying levels of domestication processes, the behavior of the bovine cow has altered from that of her original wild ungulate ancestors, although many maternal instincts have remained unchanged. The influence of maternal behavior on calf health and performance is of interest to cow-calf beef production operations, as in most instances, the cow is solely responsible for rearing the calf until weaning. However, investigating the magnitude of this influence is challenging, in part because objective measurement of behavioral traits is difficult, particularly in extensive settings. In recent years, while a number of remote monitoring devices have been developed that afford opportunities for objective measurement of behavioral traits in livestock, characterization of physiological mechanisms that underlie superior maternal behavior, including identification of potential biomarkers remains elusive in cattle. Hormonal profiles during the periparturient period have been shown to influence behavioral patterns in both current and future generations in other mammalian species and may provide insights into the physiology of bovine maternal behavior. Therefore, the aim of this review is to describe general characteristics of bovine maternal behavior and the factors known to influence it, including hormonal drivers, through which cross-reference to other species is made. Current methods of measuring and assessing behavior that may also be applicable to most production settings have also been reviewed. At present, there is no known hormonal assay that can be used to measure and/or reliably predict bovine maternal behavior post-calving or across generations. Being able to objectively assess superior maternal behavior, whether that be through remote monitoring, hormonal profiling or indirectly through measuring calf performance will be beneficial to livestock industries in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rory P. Nevard
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute for Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Correspondence: (R.P.N.); (C.P.S.)
| | - Sameer D. Pant
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute for Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - John C. Broster
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute for Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Scott T. Norman
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Kallangur Veterinary Surgery, Kallangur, QLD 4503, Australia
| | - Cyril P. Stephen
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute for Agriculture, Water and the Environment, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Correspondence: (R.P.N.); (C.P.S.)
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12
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Neurobiology of Maternal Behavior in Nonhuman Mammals: Acceptance, Recognition, Motivation, and Rejection. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243589. [PMID: 36552508 PMCID: PMC9774276 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the different species of mammals, the expression of maternal behavior varies considerably, although the end points of nurturance and protection are the same. Females may display passive or active responses of acceptance, recognition, rejection/fear, or motivation to care for the offspring. Each type of response may indicate different levels of neural activation. Different natural stimuli can trigger the expression of maternal and paternal behavior in both pregnant or virgin females and males, such as hormone priming during pregnancy, vagino-cervical stimulation during parturition, mating, exposure to pups, previous experience, or environmental enrichment. Herein, we discuss how the olfactory pathways and the interconnections of the medial preoptic area (mPOA) with structures such as nucleus accumbens, ventral tegmental area, amygdala, and bed nucleus of stria terminalis mediate maternal behavior. We also discuss how the triggering stimuli activate oxytocin, vasopressin, dopamine, galanin, and opioids in neurocircuitries that mediate acceptance, recognition, maternal motivation, and rejection/fear.
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13
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Spitzer HB, Meagher RK, Proudfoot KL. The impact of providing hiding spaces to farmed animals: A scoping review. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0277665. [PMID: 36441732 PMCID: PMC9704605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0277665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Many wild animals perform hiding behaviours for a variety of reasons, such as evading predators or other conspecifics. Unlike their wild counterparts, farmed animals often live in relatively barren environments without the opportunity to hide. Researchers have begun to study the impact of access to hiding spaces ("hides") in farmed animals, including possible effects on animal welfare. The aims of this scoping review were to: 1) identify the farmed species that have been most used in research investigating the provision of hides, 2) describe the context in which hides have been provided to farmed animals, and 3) describe the impact (positive, negative or neutral/inconclusive) that hides have on animals, including indicators of animal welfare. Three online databases (CAB Abstracts, Web of Science, and PubMed) were used to search for a target population of farmed animals with access to hiding spaces. From this search, 4,631 citations were screened and 151 were included in the review. Fourteen animal types were represented, most commonly chickens (48% of papers), cattle (9%), foxes (8%), and fish (7%). Relatively few papers were found on other species including deer, quail, ducks, lobsters, turkeys, and goats. Hides were used in four contexts: at parturition or oviposition (56%), for general enrichment (43%), for neonatal animals (4%), or for sick or injured animals (1%). A total of 218 outcomes relevant to our objectives were found including 7 categories: hide use, motivation, and/or preference (47% of outcomes), behavioural indicators of affective state (17%), health, injuries, and/or production (16%), agonistic behaviour (8%), abnormal repetitive behaviours (6%), physiological indicators of stress (5%), and affiliative behaviours (1%). Hiding places resulted in 162 positive (74%), 14 negative (6%), and 42 neutral/inconclusive (19%) outcomes. Hides had a generally positive impact on the animals included in this review; more research is encouraged for under-represented species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah B. Spitzer
- Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
| | - Rebecca K. Meagher
- Department of Animal Science and Aquaculture, Dalhousie University, Truro, Canada
| | - Kathryn L. Proudfoot
- Health Management, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, Canada
- * E-mail:
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14
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Proudfoot KL, Huzzey JM. A first time for everything: The influence of parity on the behavior of transition dairy cows. JDS COMMUNICATIONS 2022; 3:467-471. [PMID: 36465505 PMCID: PMC9709596 DOI: 10.3168/jdsc.2022-0290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Over the last 20 years an increasing amount of research has described how dairy cow behavior changes during the few weeks before and after parturition, also known as the transition period. Dairy cows experience several challenges during this period, including pain associated with pregnancy and labor, social stressors associated with pen moves, changes in diet, and navigating new routines that include daily milking in a parlor or automatic milking system. For cows calving for the first time ("primiparous"), these experiences may be particularly challenging compared with those animals who have calved previously ("multiparous"). The objectives of this review are to (1) summarize the research to date on behavioral differences between primiparous and multiparous animals during the transition period, (2) describe the effect of management practices, such as regrouping and milking, on primiparous animals, and (3) suggest management recommendations and future directions for research focused on the behavior of primiparous cows.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn L. Proudfoot
- Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown C1A4P3, Canada
| | - Juliana M. Huzzey
- Department of Animal Science, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo 93407
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15
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Jensen MB, Webb LE, Vaarst M, Bokkers EAM. The effect of hides and parity on behavior of periparturient dairy cows at pasture. J Dairy Sci 2022; 105:6196-6206. [PMID: 35525612 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-21614] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Under natural conditions, most parturient cows seek visual cover or seclude themselves from the herd when calving becomes imminent. Studies on calving site selection of dairy cows housed indoors show that predominantly older and dominant cows calve in secluded areas. This study aimed to investigate whether cows distance themselves further from herd members under spacious outdoor conditions and whether artificial hides on a pasture motivate cows to seek visual isolation from the herd. One hundred eighty-two Danish Holstein cows were allocated to 1 of 13 groups of 14 cows according to expected calving date. In 2 paddocks (each 75 × 150 m), 5 zones (75 m × 30 m) were defined; zone 0 contained the feeding and shade area, and zone 4 bordered an area with trees. Weekly and according to calving date, a group of 14 cows was moved either to a paddock that had 12 hides distributed evenly throughout zones 1 to 4 (7 groups) or to a paddock without hides (6 groups). The hides were wooden structures (3.3 m long × 1.0 m wide × 1.2 m high) that the cows could hide behind. One hundred seven cows calved within 14 d of having been moved to the paddock, and 82 of these (38 primiparous and 44 multiparous), and their calves, were included in the study. From 3 h before until 3 h after calving, the location, posture, and behavior of cows were recorded continuously from video recordings. In addition, location, posture, and behavior of the calves were recorded for the first 3 h after birth. Continuous variables were analyzed by linear mixed effects models, whereas binary data were analyzed using mixed effects logistic regression. The presence of hides did not affect selection of calving location in the paddock, but more primiparous than multiparous cows calved in zone 4; that is, furthest away from the feeding area. Before calving, primiparous cows were more likely to be positioned in zone 4 and less likely to approach and contact herd members. After calving, primiparous cows and their calves tended to be more likely to be positioned in zone 4. The more cows present in the paddock, the less likely the cows were to isolate (i.e., be further than 30 m away from any other cow) at the time of calving. In addition, the more cows in the paddock when a calf was born, the less time these calves spent in a lying posture. The results show that primiparous cows move further away from herd members at calving than multiparous cows and suggest that primiparous cows prefer to isolate themselves through distance rather than seeking artificial cover. Contrary to expectation, the hides did not make more cows select a calving site away from the feeding area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margit Bak Jensen
- Aarhus University, Department of Animal Science, Blichers Allé 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | - Laura E Webb
- Wageningen University & Research, Animal Production Systems group, Department of Animal Science, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Mette Vaarst
- Aarhus University, Department of Animal Science, Blichers Allé 20, DK-8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Eddie A M Bokkers
- Wageningen University & Research, Animal Production Systems group, Department of Animal Science, PO Box 338, 6700AH, Wageningen, the Netherlands
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16
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Effects of Social Housing on Dairy Calf Social Bonding. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070821. [PMID: 35405811 PMCID: PMC8997003 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2022] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2022] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Social housing for dairy calves has a range of benefits for social development, yet there is limited understanding of how social bonds form early in life. We characterized effects of early life social contact on the development of social preference for calves varying in familiarity. A total of 40 calves were tested in a social preference test at 4 weeks of age to assess the formation of social bonds and preference for their peers. Within an open-field social preference test, focal calves were presented with two stimulus calves, one ‘more familiar’ and one ‘less familiar’. We found that pair-housed calves spent more time in close proximity with either stimulus calf and had a greater preference for their pen-mate, compared to another calf reared within visual contact. Individually housed calves exhibited no preference for calves reared within visual but not physical contact compared to calves that were completely unfamiliar. Of the calves that approached both stimulus calves, individually housed calves that approached the ‘less familiar’ calf first spent less time near the ‘more familiar’ calf, whereas behavior of pair-housed calves was not affected by the first calf approached. These results suggest that physical contact is necessary for the development of social bonds in young dairy calves, and early life social housing may support the development of normal social behavior in dairy cattle.
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17
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Amat S, Dahlen CR, Swanson KC, Ward AK, Reynolds LP, Caton JS. Bovine Animal Model for Studying the Maternal Microbiome, in utero Microbial Colonization and Their Role in Offspring Development and Fetal Programming. Front Microbiol 2022; 13:854453. [PMID: 35283808 PMCID: PMC8916045 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2022.854453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent developments call for further research on the timing and mechanisms involved in the initial colonization of the fetal/infant gut by the maternal microbiome and its role in Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD). Although progress has been made using primarily preterm infants, ethical and legal constraints hinder research progress in embryo/fetal-related research and understanding the developmental and mechanistic roles of the maternal microbiome in fetal microbial imprinting and its long-term role in early-life microbiome development. Rodent models have proven very good for studying the role of the maternal microbiome in fetal programming. However, some inherent limitations in these animal models make it challenging to study perinatal microbial colonization from a biomedical standpoint. In this review, we discuss the potential use of bovine animals as a biomedical model to study the maternal microbiome, in utero microbial colonization of the fetal gut, and their impact on offspring development and DOHaD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samat Amat
- Department of Microbiological Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Carl R Dahlen
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Kendall C Swanson
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Alison K Ward
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Lawrence P Reynolds
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
| | - Joel S Caton
- Department of Animal Sciences, and Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND, United States
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18
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Williams TM, Costa DFA, Wilson CS, Chang A, Manning J, Swain D, Trotter MG. Sensor-based detection of parturition in beef cattle grazing in an extensive landscape: a case study using a commercial GNSS collar. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.1071/an21528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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19
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Georgescu T, Swart JM, Grattan DR, Brown RSE. The Prolactin Family of Hormones as Regulators of Maternal Mood and Behavior. Front Glob Womens Health 2021; 2:767467. [PMID: 34927138 PMCID: PMC8673487 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2021.767467] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Transition into motherhood involves profound physiological and behavioral adaptations that ensure the healthy development of offspring while maintaining maternal health. Dynamic fluctuations in key hormones during pregnancy and lactation induce these maternal adaptations by acting on neural circuits in the brain. Amongst these hormonal changes, lactogenic hormones (e.g., prolactin and its pregnancy-specific homolog, placental lactogen) are important regulators of these processes, and their receptors are located in key brain regions controlling emotional behaviors and maternal responses. With pregnancy and lactation also being associated with a marked elevation in the risk of developing mood disorders, it is important to understand how hormones are normally regulating mood and behavior during this time. It seems likely that pathological changes in mood could result from aberrant expression of these hormone-induced behavioral responses. Maternal mental health problems during pregnancy and the postpartum period represent a major barrier in developing healthy mother-infant interactions which are crucial for the child's development. In this review, we will examine the role lactogenic hormones play in driving a range of specific maternal behaviors, including motivation, protectiveness, and mother-pup interactions. Understanding how these hormones collectively act in a mother's brain to promote nurturing behaviors toward offspring will ultimately assist in treatment development and contribute to safeguarding a successful pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teodora Georgescu
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Judith M. Swart
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - David R. Grattan
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Maurice Wilkins Centre for Molecular Biodiscovery, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rosemary S. E. Brown
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
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20
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Kovács L, Kézér FL, Ruff F, Samardzija M, Szenci O. Single-dose meloxicam treatment improves standing ability of low-vitality dairy calves. J Dairy Sci 2021; 105:1618-1624. [PMID: 34799121 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2021-20704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
A promising strategy to improve newborn calf survival could be the administration of nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAID) especially in cases of low vitality calves born from difficult calvings. The objective of this clinical trial was to determine the effect of a single-dose meloxicam treatment [target dosage = 0.5 mg/kg ad usum veterinarium (A.U.V.) injection] on parameters of lying behavior of Holstein-Friesian dairy calves (n = 180) born to eutocic (n = 98) compared with dystocic dams (n = 82). Animal-based measures included newborn calf vitality (low, 1-6 scores; normal, 7-12 scores, scored immediately after birth), calf sex and birth weight, parity of the dam, and early maternal behavior (the time spent licking the calf). Parameters of the complex lying behavior were recorded during the first 48 h after delivery and included (1) the time spent standing, (2) lying down frequency, (3) the longest standing bout, (4) the average duration of standing bouts, (5) the first successful standing, and (6) the first attempt to stand. None of the parameters related to lying behavior were influenced by the parity of the dam, calf sex, or birth weight and maternal grooming behavior. The latency and the first attempt to stand were not influenced by the NSAID treatment; however, the time spent standing, the longest standing bout, and the average duration of standing indicated increased standing ability of meloxicam-treated calves with low vitality, but not in normal-vitality calves. The latency to stand and first attempt to stand were both increased by dystocia. Based on the present findings, sensory measurement of parameters of lying behavior during the immediate neonatal period might be useful to evaluate the efficiency of NSAID protocols. A single-dose meloxicam treatment showed considerable promise for improving standing ability of low-vitality calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Kovács
- Institute of Animal Sciences, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences, Guba Sándor u. 40, Kaposvár, H-7400 Hungary.
| | - F L Kézér
- Bona Adventure Ltd., Peres utca 44, Gödöllő, H-2100 Hungary
| | - F Ruff
- Department of Methodology, Hungarian Central Statistical Office, Keleti Károly utca 5-7, Budapest, H-1024 Hungary
| | - M Samardzija
- Clinic for Obstetrics and Reproduction, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - O Szenci
- Department of Obstetrics and Food Animal Medicine Clinic, University of Veterinary Medicine Budapest, Üllő-Dóra major, H-2225 Hungary
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21
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A survey on management and housing of peri-parturient dairy cows and their calves. Animal 2021; 15:100388. [PMID: 34781163 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2021] [Revised: 09/20/2021] [Accepted: 09/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Housing and management around the time of calving impact dairy cow behaviour, health and welfare, but little is known about current practice. The aim was to provide an overview of current calving practice and the study describes the main calving housing and management based on replies to an online questionnaire by 42 dairy cattle experts in 28 countries, or regions, in Europe, Canada and USA. The survey suggests that in the majority of countries and regions included in this study, dairy cows typically calve in indoor calving facilities; either individual pens, group pens or a system where the cow is moved from a group pen into an adjacent individual pen before calving. Regarding individual calving pens, the survey suggests that in the majority of countries and regions included in this study, most pens have open sides and offer cows no opportunity to isolate, although research shows that a secluded corner of an individual pen creates a preferred calving site. Further, the survey suggests that when cows calve in individual calving pens or tie-stalls, they are often moved there with signs of imminent calving, although research shows that this practice increases the duration of calving and it is recommended to move cows before their expected calving time. Regarding group pens, none of the 42 respondents replied that group pens typically offer cows the opportunity to isolate at calving. Recent research suggests that when cows calve in a secluded area of a group calving pen, this reduces the risk of failure of passive transfer of immunity. Regarding calving facilities where group pens are combined with adjacent individual pens, this was reported to be the most typical in 10 of the 24 countries and regions with indoor calving sections covered by the survey. The same concerns regarding when the cow is moved from the group pen to an individual pen apply, as outlined above. Irrespective of pen type, the most frequently reported surface was deep bedded straw and the most frequent type of separation between pens was open sides. Cow-calf separation within 12 hours of birth, and thereafter individual housing of calves combined with milk feeding via a teat bucket or bar was indicated the most frequent management. The survey presents experts' evaluations of current practice of housing and management of peri-parturient dairy cows and their calves, and suggests that there is a discrepancy between current calving management and housing and recommendations based on recent research.
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22
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The Transition Period Updated: A Review of the New Insights into the Adaptation of Dairy Cows to the New Lactation. DAIRY 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/dairy2040048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent research on the transition period (TP) of dairy cows has highlighted the pivotal role of immune function in affecting the severity of metabolic challenges the animals face when approaching calving. This suggests that the immune system may play a role in the etiology of metabolic diseases occurring in early lactation. Several studies have indicated that the roots of immune dysfunctions could sink way before the “classical” TP (e.g., 3 weeks before and 3 weeks after calving), extending the time frame deemed as “risky” for the development of early lactation disorders at the period around the dry-off. Several distressing events occurring during the TP (i.e., dietary changes, heat stress) can boost the severity of pre-existing immune dysfunctions and metabolic changes that physiologically affect this phase of the lactation cycle, further increasing the likelihood of developing diseases. Based on this background, several operational and nutritional strategies could be adopted to minimize the detrimental effects of immune dysfunctions on the adaptation of dairy cows to the new lactation. A suitable environment (i.e., optimal welfare) and a balanced diet (which guarantees optimal nutrient partitioning to improve immune functions in cow and calf) are key aspects to consider when aiming to minimize TP challenges at the herd level. Furthermore, several prognostic behavioral and physiological indicators could help in identifying subjects that are more likely to undergo a “bad transition”, allowing prompt intervention through specific modulatory treatments. Recent genomic advances in understanding the linkage between metabolic disorders and the genotype of dairy cows suggest that genetic breeding programs aimed at improving dairy cows’ adaptation to the new lactation challenges (i.e., through increasing immune system efficiency or resilience against metabolic disorders) could be expected in the future. Despite these encouraging steps forward in understanding the physiological mechanisms driving metabolic responses of dairy cows during their transition to calving, it is evident that these processes still require further investigation, and that the TP—likely extended from dry-off—continues to be “the final frontier” for research in dairy sciences.
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Hammadi I, Chniter M, Brahmi M, Atigui M, Bouzaida MD, Seddik MM, Nowak R, María GA, Hammadi M. Mismothering and remedying the mother-young relationship in stabled dromedary camels. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Whalin L, Weary DM, von Keyserlingk MAG. Understanding Behavioural Development of Calves in Natural Settings to Inform Calf Management. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082446. [PMID: 34438903 PMCID: PMC8388734 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Revised: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Animal welfare research is intended to address societal concerns regarding animal care, including natural living concerns. We reviewed the literature on calf behaviour when reared in more naturalistic outdoor systems with their mothers and herd. Understanding calf behaviour in more natural settings may help inform changes in calf management and housing that promote behaviours important to calf welfare. Abstract One important type of animal welfare concern is “natural living” (i.e., that animals are able to express natural behaviours that are important to them, and to engage with aspects of the natural world that they find important). The aims of this narrative review were to describe the behavioural development of calves (Bos taurus) in natural settings and use this to identify characteristics of natural systems that may be important to consider relative to this natural living conception of animal welfare. At birth, calves are licked by their mothers and soon stand to suckle for colostrum, and during the milk-feeding period, calves spend much of their time lying down. In natural systems, calves perform a variety of social behaviours with herd-mates, and slowly transition from their mother’s milk to eating solid food, by gradually increasing time spent grazing and ruminating. In contrast, on most commercial dairy systems, dairy calves are removed from their mothers at birth, housed individually, fed restricted amounts of milk and weaned abruptly at a young age. The results of this review suggest that accommodating key natural behaviours, for example through the use of teat feeding of milk, social housing, and gradual weaning, can help address welfare concerns.
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Creutzinger KC, Dann HM, Krawczel PD, Habing GG, Proudfoot KL. The effect of stocking density and a blind on the behavior of Holstein dairy cattle in group maternity pens. Part I: Calving location, locomotion, and separation behavior. J Dairy Sci 2021; 104:7109-7121. [PMID: 33773795 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-19744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
In a more natural setting, dairy cows separate from herdmates and seek a secluded area to give birth. However, on many dairy facilities, cows calve in barren group pens with limited space, which may limit their ability to perform these behaviors. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of stocking density and provision of a blind (a single-sided solid partition) in group bedded pack maternity pens on the behavior of dairy cattle. The study included 4 experimental treatments: (1) high stocking density (7.7-12.9 m2 of lying space/cow) with a blind, (2) low stocking density (15.4-25.8 m2) with a blind, (3) high stocking density without a blind, and (4) low stocking density without a blind. We analyzed the effect of these treatments on locomotor and separation behavior as well as blind use during the 24 h before calving. A total of 127 primiparous heifers and 247 multiparous cows were housed in 16 mixed-parity groups (4 groups per treatment) from approximately 3 wk before to immediately after calving. Locomotor behavior increased from 24 to 2 h before calving regardless of treatment but increased the most in high stocking density pens without a blind. Additionally, heifers performed more locomotion than cows. Animals increased their distance from other cows beginning approximately 4 h before calving. Animals in low stocking density pens had a greater distance from other cows compared with those in high stocking density pens. Additionally, heifers had a greater distance from penmates during the 4 h before calving than cows. More animals calved in the area of the pen that contained a blind compared with the same respective areas of high and low stocking density pens that did not contain a blind. These results suggest that periparturient dairy cattle in group maternity pens are motivated to seek seclusion at calving, but increased stocking density may impede their ability to do so. Providing additional space and a blind may benefit periparturient dairy cows and heifers by facilitating natural calving behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- K C Creutzinger
- Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus 43210
| | - H M Dann
- William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute, Chazy, NY 12921
| | - P D Krawczel
- Department of Agricultural Sciences/Animal Science, University of Helsinki, PO Box 28, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Department of Production Animal Medicine/Research Centre for Animal Welfare, University of Helsinki, PO Box 57, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland; Helsinki One Health, University of Helsinki, FI-00014 Helsinki, Finland
| | - G G Habing
- Veterinary Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus 43210
| | - K L Proudfoot
- Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PEI, C1A 4P3, Canada.
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Vilela Pires B, de Freitas LA, Voltareli da Silva G, Brasil Garcia Pimenta Neves Pereira Lima S, dos Santos Gonçalves Cyrillo JN, Bonvino Stafuzza N, Pereira de Lima ML, Paro de Paz CC. Influence of calf vigour and suckling assistance from birth to weaning in Guzerá beef cattle. ANIMAL PRODUCTION SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.1071/an20056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Context
Maternal ability, cow nutrition, and calf sex are factors that affect beef cattle production in extensive systems. The Guzerá cattle is an important breed in Brazil, where satisfactory growth rates are reported; however, studies on post-parturition calf and cow behaviour are scarce.
Aims
This study aimed to identify the influence of vigour at birth (ability to stand and suckle without assistance) and human assistance in colostrum intake (HA) on the haematological profile, cortisol concentration, and growth until weaning of Guzerá beef calf.
Methods
The following traits were observed in 73 male and 83 female calves: cow age at calving, sex, birthweight, vigour, HA, haematological profile, cortisol concentration, bodyweight at 120 days (W120), weaning weight, average daily gain and mortality. Variance analysis was performed using the general linear model procedure of the SAS software.
Key results
Haematocrit (P = 0.04) and red blood cells (P = 0.004) were higher in calves requiring HA. Cortisol was also higher (P = 0.03) in calves that required HA (81.34 ng/mL × 59.40 ng/mL). The weaning weight and average daily gain were higher (P < 0.05) in calves that did not require HA and showed good vigour (200.38 kg and 0.83 kg/day respectively) than in calves that required HA and showed good vigour (163.7 kg and 0.68 kg/day respectively). The mortality rate was higher in calves that showed poor vigour at birth (25%).
Conclusions
Both vigour and the need for HA are important traits that should be evaluated during the development of newborn calves. These assessments in the herd can contribute to minimise the mortality rate and maximise the health and weight gain until weaning of beef calves.
Implications
Few studies have reported the role of vigour and colostrum intake in the development of calves. Despite the difficulty of human interference in extensive cattle farming, the calf vigour combined with human assistance at birth can minimise the losses and increase the performance of beef cattle.
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Zobel G, Proudfoot K, Cave V, Huddart F, Webster J. The Use of Hides during and after Calving in New Zealand Dairy Cows. Animals (Basel) 2020; 10:ani10122255. [PMID: 33266194 PMCID: PMC7760911 DOI: 10.3390/ani10122255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 11/25/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Dairy cows are known to seek isolation during calving. While some regions in the world provide individual calving pens, in pasture-based systems, cows frequently calve in large outdoor groups. We aimed to determine how provision of a “hide” would impact choice of calving location and behavior of the cow and calf. The hides in this study were designed with farmer-utility in mind and were built of heavy-duty gates that could fold out of the way when not needed. When opportunity for seclusion was available, approximately 20% of the cows calved within a hide; however, post-calving seclusion was frequently sought, with over half of the cow–calf pairs moving into hides. When cows and calves isolated after calving, their interaction with other animals was reduced. Hide presence resulted in more dispersed calving location compared to when hides were not available. Factors such as increasing stocking density, and cow age, reduced hide use. This work demonstrates that group housed cows should be provided with a choice regarding calving location. Abstract Isolation during calving is a common dairy cow behavior, however it has not been examined in large outdoor group settings. The provision of “hides” was monitored for its impact on calving location and cow–calf behavior. Stocking density and bedding management were either controlled (Phase 1) or managed according to farm practice (Phase 2). Hides were used for calving by 18% (Phase 1) and 22% (Phase 2) of the cows; a further 59% and 44% of cows moved into the hides after calving (Phase 1 and 2, respectively). When hides were not available, cows calved near the edges of the calving area. In Phase 2, as stocking density increased, cows tended to use the hides less. Older cows were less likely to isolate regardless of management. Cow–calf interaction with other cows and calves was lower when hides were available. There was no evidence that hides reduced incorrect matching of cows and calves by staff, however cases of “mismothering” (i.e., calves being taken by other dams) were observed. Since the majority of cows used the hides at some stage before or after calving, we suggest opportunities for seclusion should be provided in large calving groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gosia Zobel
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, 10 Bisley Road, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand; (V.C.); (F.H.); (J.W.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +64-7-838-5911
| | - Kathryn Proudfoot
- Animal Welfare Centre at the Atlantic Veterinary College, The University of Prince Edward Island, 550 University Ave, Charlottetown, PE C1A 4P3, Canada;
| | - Vanessa Cave
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, 10 Bisley Road, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand; (V.C.); (F.H.); (J.W.)
| | - Frances Huddart
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, 10 Bisley Road, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand; (V.C.); (F.H.); (J.W.)
| | - James Webster
- AgResearch Ltd., Ruakura Research Centre, 10 Bisley Road, Private Bag 3123, Hamilton 3214, New Zealand; (V.C.); (F.H.); (J.W.)
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Verduna T, Blanc S, Merlino VM, Cornale P, Battaglini LM. Sustainability of Four Dairy Farming Scenarios in an Alpine Environment: The Case Study of Toma di Lanzo Cheese. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:569167. [PMID: 33195548 PMCID: PMC7581711 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.569167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Accepted: 09/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The dairy sector accounts for a large share of all European agricultural production, at the same time however, it is one of the most ascribed sector contributors to the environmental impact of agriculture, particularly for greenhouse gas emissions. Simultaneously, it is a strategic sector for the economy but generates increasing debate in the community regarding the social aspects mainly related to the use of resources and the food-feed competition of livestock involving the reduction of human-edible crops. In this general framework, this study aims to compare four different dairy farming scenarios characterized by different use of environmental resources in the Alpine area, considering as a case study the production of the Toma di Lanzo cheese (a traditional cheese produced in the mountainous regions of Piedmont-Northwest Italy). The study envisaged the integrated use of three methodologies: Life Cycle Assessment, Life Cycle Costing and the assessment of human-edible feed conversion efficiency to jointly analyze environmental, economic and social aspects. The main results of this research highlighted how the utilization of local breeds, which maximize the efficiency in the use of territory resources, such as grasslands in a mountain environment, allowed dairy production to reduce emissions, when compared to the high-input traditional breeding systems. Although the mountain livestock systems have several critical issues mainly linked to social factors such as low generational turnover, work schedules, modest life quality of families, it is however possible to earn more income than in lowland scenarios. At the same time, this production system allows the Toma di Lanzo cheese-making heritage to be preserved. This mountain pasture cheese, to which superior organoleptic and nutritional characteristics are attributable, when compared to cheeses from the valley floor, incorporates traditional values, a link to the territory and the transmission of knowledge. With reference to food-feed competition in livestock involving the reduction of the use of human-edible crops and feedstuffs in animal diets, we found that grazing and grass-based feeding systems were one of the most sustainable ways to produce milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tibor Verduna
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Simone Blanc
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | | | - Paolo Cornale
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
| | - Luca Maria Battaglini
- Department of Agricultural, Forest and Food Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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Green AC, Clark CE, Lomax S, Favaro L, Reby D. Context-related variation in the peripartum vocalisations and phonatory behaviours of Holstein-Friesian dairy cows. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Abstract
In this Research Reflection we describe a common standpoint on suitable methodology for controlled and observational studies in cow-calf contact systems in dairy production. Different methods to assess behaviour, health and production in cow-calf contact systems are outlined. Knowledge and experience from researchers working in this field supplement scientific literature whenever relevant. Specific methods including study design, early behaviour of cow and calf, social behaviour relevant to cow-calf contact systems, human-animal relationships and aspects related to management (milking, weaning and separation, health) are reviewed, and recommendations formed. We expect that this paper can contribute to a better understanding of the complexity of cow-calf contact systems and help to advance research in this area of dairy production.
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Pérez-Torres L, Averós X, Estevez I, Rubio I, Corro M, Clemente N, Orihuela A. Herd dynamics and distribution of zebu cows and calves (Bos indicus) are affected by state before, during and after calving. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2020.105013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Methodological terminology and definitions for research and discussion of cow-calf contact systems. J DAIRY RES 2020; 87:108-114. [PMID: 33213583 DOI: 10.1017/s0022029920000564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Due to increasing public concern regarding separation of the dairy cow and calf within the first days after birth, alternative systems, where cows and calves stay in contact for an extended period, are receiving increasing interest from a broad array of researchers and other stakeholders. With more research in the area, there is a risk of inconsistencies emerging in the use of terminology. To create a better consensus in further discussions, the aim of this Research Reflection is to provide definitions and propose a common terminology for cow-calf contact in dairy production. We also suggest definitions for various systems allowing cow-calf contact and describe the distinct phases of cow-calf contact systems.
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Edwards EM, Krawczel PD, Dann HM, Schneider LG, Whitlock B, Proudfoot KL. Calving location preference and changes in lying and exploratory behavior of preparturient dairy cattle with access to pasture. J Dairy Sci 2020; 103:5455-5465. [PMID: 32278561 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2019-17218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The objectives of this study were to (1) describe the calving location of dairy cattle given access to a pasture and barn; (2) identify factors associated with calving location; and (3) compare the lying and exploratory behavior of cows in the 24 h before calving and a previous day. Seventy-two Holstein dairy heifers and cows (n = 36 nulliparous and n = 36 primiparous and multiparous combined) were housed in a covered bedded-pack barn (167.4 m2) with free access to 2.1 ha of pasture. The composition of the group was dynamic, because cows were moved in weekly at 19 ± 6 d [mean ± standard deviation (SD)] before their calving date, and were removed immediately after calving. To facilitate data collection, we divided the environment into 9 sections, including the barn (section 1; 167.4 m2), 7 sections of open pasture (sections 2 to 8; 2,402 ± 60 m2), and 1 section of pasture surrounded by natural forage cover (section 9; 3,593 m2). We then collapsed these 9 sections into 3 distinct areas for further analysis: the barn, open pasture, and natural forage cover. Animals were fitted with accelerometers to measure lying time, lying bout duration, lying bouts, and steps for the 24 h before calving (calving day) and a similar 24 h period 4 to 11 d (median = 7) before calving (baseline day). We included parity (nulliparous vs. primiparous and multiparous) and heat stress [no heat stress = temperature-humidity index (THI) ≤68 vs. heat stress = THI >68 and ≤79] in all analyses; we included time of day and group composition as additional factors that may have affected calving location. We determined exploratory behavior using 10 min instantaneous scan sampling collected from video. At each scan, we recorded the section (1 to 9) the cow or heifer was located in, and then calculated the minimum number of sections that could be crossed between successive scans. Of the total sample, 39% calved in the barn, 26% calved in the open pasture, and 35% calved in the area with natural forage cover. Nulliparous heifers and those calving when heat stress was low (THI ≤68) selected the area with natural forage cover more frequently than the barn. On the calving day, cows spent more time lying down with more short bouts of lying, and crossed more sections compared with the baseline day. Steps were affected by an interactive effect of day, parity, and heat stress; nulliparous heifers took more steps on the calving day during conditions of heat stress compared with no heat stress. Results indicate that cows and heifers had different preferences for their environment at calving, and when provided access to pasture, both changed their lying and exploratory behavior on the day of calving compared with a previous day.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Edwards
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37996
| | - P D Krawczel
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37996
| | - H M Dann
- William H. Miner Agricultural Research Institute, Chazy, NY 12921
| | - L G Schneider
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37996
| | - B Whitlock
- Department of Animal Science, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37996; Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37996
| | - K L Proudfoot
- Veterinary Preventive Medicine, Ohio State University, Columbus 43210.
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Costa JH, Cantor MC, Adderley NA, Neave HW. Key animal welfare issues in commercially raised dairy calves: social environment, nutrition, and painful procedures. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1139/cjas-2019-0031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Dairy calf welfare concerns are growing and new evidence suggests that the early life environment influences appropriate physical, behavioral, and cognitive development lasting into adulthood. This review highlights key evidence for the impacts of housing, diets, and painful procedures on calf welfare. We argue that these topics are currently critical welfare concerns, but are not the only points of concern. In addition to environmental requirements to maintain optimal health, dairy calves experience other challenges including social and nutritional restrictions. Individual housing is associated with impaired behavioral development and cognitive ability. Pair and group housing can mitigate some of these negative effects and should be encouraged. Restrictive milk allowances (<15% of body weight) lead to poor growth and hunger; these welfare concerns can be addressed with proper enhanced milk allowances and gradual weaning programs. Finally, dehorning is a critical animal welfare issue when pain control is withheld; calves show negative behavioral, physiological, and emotional responses during and after dehorning. The combined use of local anaesthetics and analgesics can mitigate these effects. An industry shift toward providing social companionship, enhanced milk allowances, and pain control during painful procedures would help to improve the welfare of dairy calves in intensive commercial rearing facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao H.C. Costa
- Dairy Science Program, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, 325 Cooper Drive, Lexington, KY 40546-0215, USA
| | - Melissa C. Cantor
- Dairy Science Program, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, 325 Cooper Drive, Lexington, KY 40546-0215, USA
| | - Nicola A. Adderley
- Animal Welfare Program, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Heather W. Neave
- Animal Welfare Program, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
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Meagher RK, Beaver A, Weary DM, von Keyserlingk MAG. Invited review: A systematic review of the effects of prolonged cow-calf contact on behavior, welfare, and productivity. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5765-5783. [PMID: 31103300 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-16021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Separation of calves from cows within hours or days of birth is common on dairy farms. Stakeholders have conflicting perspectives on whether this practice is harmful or beneficial for the animals' welfare and production. Our objective was to critically evaluate the scientific evidence for both acute and long-term effects of early separation versus an extended period of cow-calf contact. The outcomes investigated were the behavior, welfare (excluding physical health), and performance (milk yield and growth, respectively) of dairy cows and calves. Primary research papers were found through targeted Web of Science searches, the reference lists of recent reviews for each topic, and the reference lists of papers identified from these sources. Studies were included if they were published in English, the full text was accessible, and they compared treatments with and without contact between dairy cows and calves for a specified period. Early separation (within 24 h postpartum) was found to reduce acute distress responses of cows and calves. However, longer cow-calf contact typically had positive longer-term effects on calves, promoting more normal social behavior, reducing abnormal behavior, and sometimes reducing responses to stressors. In terms of productivity, allowing cows to nurse calves generally decreased the volume of milk available for sale during the nursing period, but we found no consistent evidence of reduced milk production over a longer period. Allowing a prolonged period of nursing increased calf weight gains during the milk-feeding period. In summary, extended cow-calf contact aggravates the acute distress responses and reduces the amount of saleable milk while the calves are suckling, but it can have positive effects on behaviors relevant to welfare in the longer term and benefit calf growth. The strength of these conclusions is limited, however, given that relatively few studies address most of these effects and that experimental design including timing of contact and observations are often inconsistent across studies. Few studies presented indicators of long-term welfare effects other than abnormal and social behavior of the calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca K Meagher
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6AR United Kingdom
| | - Annabelle Beaver
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4
| | - Marina A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada V6T 1Z4.
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Jensen MB, Herskin MS, Rørvang MV. Secluded maternity areas for parturient dairy cows offer protection from herd members. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5492-5500. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15893] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Proudfoot KL. Maternal Behavior and Design of the Maternity Pen. Vet Clin North Am Food Anim Pract 2019; 35:111-124. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cvfa.2018.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Cantor MC, Neave HW, Costa JHC. Current perspectives on the short- and long-term effects of conventional dairy calf raising systems: a comparison with the natural environment. Transl Anim Sci 2019; 3:549-563. [PMID: 32704826 PMCID: PMC7200560 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txy144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2018] [Accepted: 01/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the neonatal and infancy period is short, it is well documented that the early neonatal environment is critical for appropriate physical, behavioral, and cognitive development that lasts into adulthood. Dairy calves are commonly removed from the dam shortly after birth and raised in individual housing and fed limited milk allowances (4 to 6 L/d) in commercial farms around the world (conventional raising). Individual housing was developed to promote health status and facilitate individual animal monitoring. However, it is associated with high labor demand, and early life social isolation is associated with cognitive and behavioral abnormalities. Recently, group housing and enhanced milk-feeding programs are being increasingly adopted by farms; these practices more closely resemble the social and nutritional environments in natural or seminatural environments when the calf is raised with the dam. Conventional raising may lead to short- and long-term effects when compared to calves raised with the dam or peers. Short-term effects of conventional raising include impaired social skills when introduced to novel peers, reduced consumption of novel feeds, increased activity in a novel environment, and signs of hunger associated with limited milk intake and poor growth during the preweaning period. Evidence also suggests that the long-term effects of conventional artificial raising systems include behavioral differences, such as lower social submissiveness, increased heart rate and cortisol when presented with a novel environment, and production differences such as milk yield and reproductive performance. However, research on the long-term effects of maternal, social, physical, and nutritional restrictions in early life is still limited and should be encouraged. More research is needed to determine the long-term effects of artificial raising systems (individual, group housing, dam-raised) on future behavior, cognition, performance, and health parameters in dairy calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa C Cantor
- Dairy Science Program, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
| | - Heather W Neave
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Joao H C Costa
- Dairy Science Program, Department of Animal and Food Sciences, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
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Jensen MB, Rørvang MV. The degree of visual cover and location of birth fluids affect dairy cows' choice of calving site. J Dairy Sci 2018; 101:9483-9492. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-14724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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