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Rell J, Nanchen C, Savary P, Buchli C, Rufener C. Dam-calf contact rearing in Switzerland: Aspects of management and milking. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00800-2. [PMID: 38762107 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24424] [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: 11/13/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
Cow-calf contact (CCC) rearing is becoming an increasingly popular alternative to the common practice of early separation of cow and calf in dairy management. Milkability can be impaired in nursing cows, which contributes to the loss of machine milk yield caused by calf intake, especially in pure dam-calf contact (DCC) systems. The aims of this study were (1) to describe the current status quo of DCC rearing regarding management and milking and (2) to evaluate the effects of DCC (suckling and milking vs. milking alone) and the effects of different types of DCC on milkabilty parameters, teat condition and behavior during milking on Swiss DCC farms. By means of 17 telephone interviews with DCC farmers, we collected data on DCC management, housing, separation and weaning processes, milking procedures and techniques, and perceived milkability problems. Subsequently, we collected data on 10 of the interviewed DCC farms (183 cows): 4 DCC farms with a whole-day contact (WDC) system, 3 farms with DCC before milking (CBM), and 3 farms with DCC after milking (CAM). Five farms on which calves had no contact with dams were chosen as reference farms (178 cows). Using a milk flow meter, the occurrence of ejection disorders, bimodality of the milk flow curve, machine milk yield, the duration of the decline phase, and the duration of prestimulation were measured. The average mouthpiece chamber vacuum during the main milking phase and hind leg activity during milking were measured using a pressure sensor and an accelerometer, respectively. After cluster removal, the teat condition was evaluated, and a stripping milk sample was taken for fat content analysis. The interview results revealed that 8 of the 17 farms surveyed had a WDC system, and 2 farms operated a daytime DCC system. Contact before milking was applied by 3 farms, and 3 farms allowed CAM. On one farm, calves had access to dams 3 times a day. A great diversity in cow-calf management was found. In the on-farm data-collection, 20 milkings of a total of 701 milkings examined met the criteria for a clear ejection disorder, with 17 of these observations occurring on WDC farms and none on reference farms. The stripping milk fat content was lower in nursing cows, indicating a lower degree of udder emptying. Machine milk yield during the main milking phase was higher in nursing CAM cows than in nursing WDC and CBM cows. Farm types did not differ regarding teat condition, hind leg activity, or the occurrence of bimodal milk flow curves. In conclusion, the large variation in individual management approaches to DCC rearing even within DCC types, such as calf housing or cow breeds, implies caution when interpreting results. Contact after milking may be the system most beneficial for some productivity parameters, but adequate calf supply must be ensured. Higher amounts of milk remaining in the udder after cluster removal indicate that nursing can affect milkability, but future research should consider the effects of udder filling before milking to better interpret the fat content of stripping milk.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Rell
- Centre for Dam-Calf Contact Rearing (Fachstelle MUKA), 8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland.
| | - C Nanchen
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), Agroscope, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - P Savary
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), Agroscope, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
| | - C Buchli
- Centre for Dam-Calf Contact Rearing (Fachstelle MUKA), 8903 Birmensdorf, Switzerland
| | - C Rufener
- Centre for Proper Housing of Ruminants and Pigs, Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office (FSVO), Agroscope, Tänikon 1, 8356 Ettenhausen, Switzerland
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Jensen EH, Neave HW, Bateson M, Jensen MB. Maternal behavior of dairy cows and suckling behavior of dairy calves in different cow-calf-contact conditions. J Dairy Sci 2024:S0022-0302(24)00640-4. [PMID: 38677412 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24291] [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: 10/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Cow-calf contact (CCC) has been suggested as an alternative to the common practice of early separation of dairy cow and calf. Increasing CCC poses challenges by reducing the machine milk yield and increasing separation stress. Part-time CCC may prove more feasible than full-time contact for farmers but may affect the maternal behavior of the cows. Gradually reducing the daily contact could gradually wean the calf off milk, preparing it for separation. This study aims to investigate 1) how cows' maternal behaviors toward their own calf are affected by part-time contact, and 2) whether calves' suckling behavior is reduced by reducing daily cow contact. Fifty-six dairy cows and their calves were assigned to either full-time (23 h/d) or part-time (10 h/d) cow-calf contact for 7 weeks (main rearing period). This was followed by 2 weeks of either reduced contact (50% in wk 8, then 25% of original contact time in wk 9) or unchanged contact. First, the maternal behavior of full and part-time cows was observed for 24 h in the third week of the main rearing period. Part-time cows spent less time nursing and grooming their own calf than full-time cows did. However, the amount of nursing in the inverse parallel position and the probability of a cow nursing a calf other than her own did not differ between the 2 treatments. Second, calf suckling behavior was observed for 24 h in both weeks of the reduced contact period. Averaged across both observations, total suckling time (i.e., time spent suckling any cow) was lower in part-time calves that experienced reduced contact compared with part-time calves with unchanged contact. In wk 9, time spent suckling only the dam was lower for full-time calves with reduced contact compared with part-time calves with unchanged contact. In conclusion, although we found a lower nursing and grooming time in part-time cows compared with full-time, we found no difference between treatments with regards to nursing in the inverse parallel position and nursing a calf other than the cow's own. The effect of gradually reducing cow-calf contact on calves' suckling time requires more research.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Heather W Neave
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
| | - Melissa Bateson
- Biosciences Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Margit Bak Jensen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark
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Neave HW, Jensen EH, Durrenwachter M, Jensen MB. Behavioral responses of dairy cows and their calves to gradual or abrupt weaning and separation when managed in full- or part-time cow-calf contact systems. J Dairy Sci 2024; 107:2297-2320. [PMID: 37944800 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-24085] [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: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
There is growing interest in managing cow and calf together for a prolonged period, but concerns remain about how best to wean and separate the cow and calf to minimize stress. One approach is to progressively reduce suckling opportunity over time, as in nature. There is also interest in part-time contact (suckling for part of the day) to improve milk yield for the farmer and potentially reduce stress at weaning and separation. The primary objective of this study was to compare the behavioral responses of dairy cows to gradual or abrupt weaning and separation, when managed either full or part time with their calves; a secondary focus was the vocal responses of calves under these management conditions. In a 3 × 2 factorial design (n = 14/ treatment), dairy cows and their calves (n = 84 in 7 blocks of 12 cow-calf pairs) were assigned to one of 3 dam-contact treatments at birth: (1) full-time contact between the dam and calf, apart from milking times (total 23 h/d) (2) part-time contact between the dam and calf, between morning and afternoon milking only (total 10 h/d); (3) no contact, where the dam and calf were separated after leaving the maternity pen and had no further contact. At wk 8, one of 2 weaning treatments was assigned: (1) gradual weaning by reduced contact time (50%, then 25% of original dam-contact time in wk 8 and 9, respectively), or gradually reduced milk allowance for no-contact calves (50%, then 25% of estimated 12-L milk intake in wk 8 and 9, respectively) until complete milk removal and dam-calf separation at wk 10; (2) abrupt weaning where milk removal occurred simultaneously with dam-calf separation at wk 10, or only milk removal for no-contact calves. Overall, part-time contact did not reduce weaning and separation distress for cows or calves for either weaning method. Part-time cows showed reduced behavioral responses to separation (greater lying time and less searching behavior), especially on the day of and 24 h after separation, but they showed a similarly strong vocal response to separation as full-time cows. Part-time calves made substantially more high-pitched vocalizations than full-time calves at 24 h after separation. Furthermore, gradual weaning by reducing contact time did not seem to better prepare cows or calves for complete milk removal and separation; most behavioral and vocal responses occurred on the day of separation for gradual-weaning cows and calves, but 24 h later, the reverse occurred for abrupt-weaning cows and there was no difference between gradual- and abrupt-weaning calves. Our results suggest that part-time contact and gradual-weaning conditions likely resulted in hunger and expectation for reunion, which together may have exaggerated behavioral responses at separation. Temporary daily separations may not have increased independence of cow and calf, and the gradual-weaning method here may not have reduced milk intake by calves. These elements are important criteria to facilitate the weaning process, so future work should explore ways to gradually reduce milk intake and promote social independence of cow and calf to minimize weaning distress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather W Neave
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | | | - Marine Durrenwachter
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark
| | - Margit Bak Jensen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Science, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
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Bertelsen M, Jensen MB. Comparing weaning methods in dairy calves with different dam contact levels. J Dairy Sci 2023; 106:9598-9612. [PMID: 37641322 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2023-23393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Allowing the dam to rear her calf is an alternative practice in the dairy industry where cow and calf may gain welfare benefits from performing natural and highly motivated behaviors. However, this system has been linked to an increased separation and weaning response. Reducing the daily dam-calf contact time may be a way to prepare the calf for weaning and separation. The first aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 8 wk of half-day dam-calf contact on calf response to weaning and separation, compared with calves reared with whole-day dam-calf contact and an artificially reared, group-housed control with unrestricted access to milk for 20 min twice daily. Weaning off milk and separation from the dam can be viewed as 2 independent stressors. By introducing each stressor separately, it may be possible to reduce the overall behavioral response. The second aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of 1-wk fence-line weaning before permanent separation. The study was conducted with a 3 × 2 factorial design with dam contact treatments (whole-day, half-day, and control) and weaning treatments (simultaneous, and stepwise). Whole-day calves were separated twice daily from their dams during milking, whereas half-day calves were separated daily from the afternoon milking and until next morning milking. Simultaneous weaning and separation were done in wk 9, and stepwise weaning and separation started in wk 8 with calves being fence-line weaned before permanent separation in wk 9. Data were collected on 69 dairy calves in wk 8 and wk 9, and data were summarized over the 2 weeks for analysis. Stepwise weaning and separation reduced the number of high-pitched vocalizations and activity of dam-reared dairy calves but had little effect on control calves. There was no difference between whole-day and half-day calves in their response to separation, but as expected, dam-reared calves reacted more strongly than the control group. This was also reflected in the average daily BW gain the week after weaning, with control calves having higher average daily gains than whole-day, while half-day calves were intermediate. However, the behavioral response did not fully wane within the observation period (0-48 h of interventions). In conclusion, 1-wk fence-line weaning reduced the summed weaning and separation response in dam-reared calves. However, no difference between half-day dam-calf contact and whole-day dam contact was detected in the behavioral response to weaning and separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maja Bertelsen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
| | - Margit Bak Jensen
- Department of Animal and Veterinary Sciences, Aarhus University, 8830 Tjele, Denmark.
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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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Kumar P, Abubakar AA, Verma AK, Umaraw P, Adewale Ahmed M, Mehta N, Nizam Hayat M, Kaka U, Sazili AQ. New insights in improving sustainability in meat production: opportunities and challenges. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2023; 63:11830-11858. [PMID: 35821661 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2022.2096562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Treating livestock as senseless production machines has led to rampant depletion of natural resources, enhanced greenhouse gas emissions, gross animal welfare violations, and other ethical issues. It has essentially instigated constant scrutiny of conventional meat production by various experts and scientists. Sustainably in the meat sector is a big challenge which requires a multifaced and holistic approach. Novel tools like digitalization of the farming system and livestock market, precision livestock farming, application of remote sensing and artificial intelligence to manage production and environmental impact/GHG emission, can help in attaining sustainability in this sector. Further, improving nutrient use efficiency and recycling in feed and animal production through integration with agroecology and industrial ecology, improving individual animal and herd health by ensuring proper biosecurity measures and selective breeding, and welfare by mitigating animal stress during production are also key elements in achieving sustainability in meat production. In addition, sustainability bears a direct relationship with various social dimensions of meat production efficiency such as non-market attributes, balance between demand and consumption, market and policy failures. The present review critically examines the various aspects that significantly impact the efficiency and sustainability of meat production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pavan Kumar
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Production and Biodiversity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Abubakar Ahmed Abubakar
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Production and Biodiversity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Akhilesh Kumar Verma
- Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Pramila Umaraw
- Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Muideen Adewale Ahmed
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Nitin Mehta
- Department of Livestock Products Technology, College of Veterinary Science, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Ludhiana, Punjab, India
| | - Muhammad Nizam Hayat
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Ubedullah Kaka
- Department of Companion Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Awis Qurni Sazili
- Laboratory of Sustainable Animal Production and Biodiversity, Institute of Tropical Agriculture and Food Security, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
- Halal Products Research Institute, Putra Infoport, Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia
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Nielsen SS, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Canali E, Drewe JA, Garin‐Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortazar Schmidt C, Herskin M, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MA, Padalino B, Pasquali P, Roberts HC, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde A, Viltrop A, Jensen MB, Waiblinger S, Candiani D, Lima E, Mosbach‐Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Vitali M, Winckler C. Welfare of calves. EFSA J 2023; 21:e07896. [PMID: 37009444 PMCID: PMC10050971 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2023.7896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/31/2023] Open
Abstract
This Scientific Opinion addresses a European Commission request on the welfare of calves as part of the Farm to Fork strategy. EFSA was asked to provide a description of common husbandry systems and related welfare consequences, as well as measures to prevent or mitigate the hazards leading to them. In addition, recommendations on three specific issues were requested: welfare of calves reared for white veal (space, group housing, requirements of iron and fibre); risk of limited cow–calf contact; and animal‐based measures (ABMs) to monitor on‐farm welfare in slaughterhouses. The methodology developed by EFSA to address similar requests was followed. Fifteen highly relevant welfare consequences were identified, with respiratory disorders, inability to perform exploratory or foraging behaviour, gastroenteric disorders and group stress being the most frequent across husbandry systems. Recommendations to improve the welfare of calves include increasing space allowance, keeping calves in stable groups from an early age, ensuring good colostrum management and increasing the amounts of milk fed to dairy calves. In addition, calves should be provided with deformable lying surfaces, water via an open surface and long‐cut roughage in racks. Regarding specific recommendations for veal systems, calves should be kept in small groups (2–7 animals) within the first week of life, provided with ~ 20 m2/calf and fed on average 1 kg neutral detergent fibre (NDF) per day, preferably using long‐cut hay. Recommendations on cow–calf contact include keeping the calf with the dam for a minimum of 1 day post‐partum. Longer contact should progressively be implemented, but research is needed to guide this implementation in practice. The ABMs body condition, carcass condemnations, abomasal lesions, lung lesions, carcass colour and bursa swelling may be collected in slaughterhouses to monitor on‐farm welfare but should be complemented with behavioural ABMs collected on farm.
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Bertelsen M, Steinerova K, Jensen MB. The effects of part-time dam-contact and stepwise weaning and separation on the voluntary human approach behaviour of dairy calves. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023]
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9
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Wegner CS, Ternman E. Lying behaviour of lactating dairy cows in a cow-calf contact freestall system. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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10
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Effect of mother bonded rearing on growth, health and physiological state of Murrah buffalo calves. J DAIRY RES 2022; 89:386-391. [PMID: 36533551 DOI: 10.1017/s0022029922000747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the effect of different types of mother-young contacts (fenceline, restricted and no contact) on the health, growth performance, behaviour and physiological state of Murrah buffalo calves. A total of 24 calves were allocated to three groups of 8: NCM (no calf-mother contact), RCM (restricted calf-mother contact) and FCM (fenceline calf-mother contact). At three months of age, the FCM calves had a higher average body weight (58.6 ± 1.5 kg) than the RCM (52.8 ± 1.3 kg) and NCM (53.6 ± 1.3 kg) calves (P < 0.05). The average daily gain (ADG) at three months of age was greater in FCM (0.6 ± 0.1 kg/d) than RCM (0.5 ± 0.1 kg/d) and NCM (0.5 ± 0.1 kg/d) calves (P < 0.05). The mean immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations were significantly greater on d 7, 28, 42 and d 56 of sampling (P < 0.05 for all comparisons) in FCM than RCM and NCM calves. The mean cortisol levels were highest in the NCM calves followed by RCM and the lowest values were observed in FCM calves on d 0, d 7, d 28, d 42 and d 56, respectively (P < 0.05, for all recorded days). The diarrhoea score and eggs per gram of faeces (EPG) were significantly greater in the NCM group compared to the RCM and FCM groups. The time spent in cross sucking, licking inanimate objects and self-licking was greatest (P < 0.05) in NCM calves, followed by RCM calves, and was almost non-existent in the FCM group on all the recorded weeks. Time spent in backward ear position was greater (P < 0.05) in FCM than RCM and NCM calves. The average time spent in forward ear position was greatest (P < 0.05) in the RCM calves followed by NCM with the lowest time observed in FCM calves. The mean duration of time spent by calves in the asymmetrical and axial ear position differed significantly (P < 0.05) among NCM, RCM and FCM calves, P < 0.05. The full and fenceline buffalo calf-mother contact system showed higher growth rates, lower levels of stress responses, oral stereotypies and eggs per gram of faeces. In addition, ear postures may be used as a dependable, and reliable measure of positive, low arousal emotional states.
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A “Good Life” for Dairy Cattle: Developing and Piloting a Framework for Assessing Positive Welfare Opportunities Based on Scientific Evidence and Farmer Expertise. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12192540. [PMID: 36230281 PMCID: PMC9559654 DOI: 10.3390/ani12192540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There is increasing appetite to understand how we can provide quality of life to farm animals. A framework to evaluate positive welfare opportunities for dairy cattle was developed using a participatory approach where farmer’s recommendations were integrated into a scientific framework and piloted on farm by vets. When provided with the opportunity to collaborate, farmers and scientists broadly agree on what constitutes “a good life” for dairy cattle and worked together to develop an assessment framework. Farmers did not agree equally on the value of each positive welfare opportunity. However, farmers supported positive welfare assessment as a means of recognition and reward for higher animal welfare, within existing farm assurance schemes, and to justify national and global marketing claims of higher animal welfare. Abstract On-farm welfare assessment tends to focus on minimising negative welfare, but providing positive welfare is important in order to give animals a good life. This study developed a positive welfare framework for dairy cows based on the existing scientific literature which has focused on developing positive welfare indicators, and trialled a participatory approach with farmers; refining the framework based on their recommendations, followed by a vet pilot phase on farm. The results revealed that farmers and scientists agree on what constitutes “a good life” for dairy cattle. Farmers value positive welfare because they value their cows’ quality of life, and want to be proud of their work, improve their own wellbeing as well as receive business benefits. For each good life resource, the proportion of farmers going above and beyond legislation ranged from 27 to 84%. Furthermore, barriers to achieving positive welfare opportunities, including monetary and time costs, were not apparently insurmountable if implementation costs were remunerated (by the government). However, the intrinsic value in providing such opportunities also incentivises farmers. Overall, most farmers appeared to support positive welfare assessment, with the largest proportion (50%) supporting its use within existing farm assurance schemes, or to justify national and global marketing claims. Collaborating with farmers to co-create policy is crucial to showcase and quantify the UK’s high welfare standards, and to maximise engagement, relevance and uptake of animal welfare policy, to ensure continuous improvement and leadership in the quality of lives for farm animals.
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Bieber A, Walkenhorst M, Eppenstein R, Probst JK, Thüer S, Baki C, Martin B, Neff AS. Effects of twice a day teat bucket feeding compared to twice a day mother suckling on behaviour, health traits and blood immune parameters in dairy calves and immune parameters in cow`s milk. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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13
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Ivemeyer S, Preußer J, Haager D, Simantke C, Waldherr P, Kull K, Utz G, Knierim U, Winckler C. Impact of enhanced compared to restricted milk feeding on the behaviour and health of organic dairy calves. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2022.105655] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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14
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Orihuela A. Review: Management of livestock behavior to improve welfare and production. Animal 2021; 15 Suppl 1:100290. [PMID: 34238724 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2021.100290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 11/21/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
In animal production, producers face different problems inherent to production systems. Today society is increasingly concerned about more sustainable systems and animal welfare. Applied ethology can be a tool to solve some of these problems through these approaches. The purpose of this review is to show succinctly some sustainable behavioral technologies whose application favors animal welfare and productivity. The examples cover areas of behavioral problems associated with multiple births, where odor transfer can be used to substitute or add newborns to a foster mother; early weaning, where some alternatives for a gradual break may reduce the stress of separation; early experience on the development of food preferences, where behavioral problems like neophobia can be avoided; early detection of sick animals, where recognition of some specific behaviors could help early identification of diseases, even before the appearance of clinical signs; social isolation on ease of handling, where different techniques have proved their effectiveness modifying the temperament of the animals; design of facilities and management, where it is highlighted how when considering the behavior of the animals in the design and management, better results are obtained; social isolation, facilitation, and buffering, where the presence of other members of the group can modify the consumption and sexual behaviors of pen-mates, or even alleviate suffering; and human-animal interaction on productivity, where the relevance of a positive human-animal interaction is highlighted. After reviewing the scientific literature on the subject, we can conclude that several modern livestock management practices might induce stress in animals, affecting their welfare, health, and productive performance. Applied animal behavior could be a sustainable and effective option to understand and solve some of these problems, and in many cases does not even require a strong economic investment for producers.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Orihuela
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001 Col. Chamilpa, 62210 Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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Broucek J, Uhrincat M, Kisac P, Hanus A. The effect of rearing conditions during the milk-fed period on milk yield, growth, and maze behaviour of dairy cows during their first lactation. Arch Anim Breed 2021; 64:69-82. [PMID: 34084905 PMCID: PMC8130543 DOI: 10.5194/aab-64-69-2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to find whether cow growth, milk
performance, and behaviour are affected by (1) rearing conditions until weaning
after a milk-fed period of 84 d and (2) the sire lineage. Thirty-five Holstein heifers
were assigned to one of three treatments: SM, n=13, pen with mother to
21st day, then group pen (they received a maximum of 6 kg of milk daily); SN,
n=9, after 3 d with own mother in pen with nursing cow (they received a
maximum of 6 kg of milk daily); H, n=13, in hutch from the 2nd to 56th day (6 kg of milk replacer daily), then loose housing pen to weaning (6 kg of milk replacer
daily). After weaning at the 84th day, all heifers were kept in pens with the
same ration as during calving. During lactation, live body weight (LBW) was
measured each month and milk yield each day. Maze learning was evaluated in
the fifth month of lactation. The data were analysed using a general linear model ANOVA. At the 30th day, the LBW tended to be the highest in SN (SM
528.2 ± 11.4 kg, SN 571.7 ± 15.3 kg, H 533.2 ± 12.3 kg). When lactation ended, the highest LBW was in SN and the lowest in H (SM
612.6 ± 12.2 kg, SN 623.1 ± 16.4 kg, H 569.8 ± 13.2 kg; P<0.05). The SN tended to have the highest production of milk (SM
7143.9 ± 241.5 kg, SN 7345.1 ± 319.0 kg, H 7146.7 ± 234 kg),
and the H for FCM (SM 6290.3 ± 203.2 kg, SN 6307.6 ± 268.4 kg, H
6399.3 ± 197.1 kg) for 305 d lactation. Group SN crossed the maze
fastest (SM 1141.4 ± 120.5 s, SN 810.3 ± 160.5 s, H 1120.8 ± 118.6 s). The vocalization number differed significantly (SM 32.3 ± 5.7, SN 20.8 ± 4.4, H 9.9 ± 2.6; P<0.01). The results
indicated that the rearing method up to weaning may have an impact on dairy
cows' performance and behaviour.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Broucek
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Animal Production Nitra, Hlohovecka 2, 951 41 Luzianky, Slovakia
| | - Michal Uhrincat
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Animal Production Nitra, Hlohovecka 2, 951 41 Luzianky, Slovakia
| | - Peter Kisac
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Animal Production Nitra, Hlohovecka 2, 951 41 Luzianky, Slovakia
| | - Anton Hanus
- National Agricultural and Food Centre, Research Institute of Animal Production Nitra, Hlohovecka 2, 951 41 Luzianky, Slovakia
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Pérez-Torres L, Ortiz P, Martínez JF, Orihuela A, Rubio I, Corro M, Galina CS, Ungerfeld R. Short- and long-term effects of temporary early cow-calf separation or restricted suckling on well-being and performance in zebu cattle. Animal 2020; 15:100132. [PMID: 33712218 DOI: 10.1016/j.animal.2020.100132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2020] [Revised: 10/28/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Information on weaning techniques in the tropics is scarce, particularly regarding the long-term effect of temporary early cow-calf separation or restricted suckling. Therefore, we studied the effects of these two handling practices on well-being and performance at 150 days postpartum in fifteen zebu cow-calf pairs randomly assigned to three treatments. Continuous suckling (CS) where calves remained with their dams from birth to weaning; restricted suckling (RS) calves were allowed to suckle 30 min/day from Day 34 until weaning at Day 150 and kept separated the rest of the time; temporary separation (TS) calves were separated for 72 h from their dams from Day 33 to 36 but remained with their dams the rest of the time. Blood samples and behavioral data were collected on Days 32-36 (1st period) and 149-153 (2nd period). In the 1st period, a greater percentage of RS and TS calves were observed close to the fence line (<10 m) that separated them from their dams (P < 0.0001) and vocalized more than CS calves (P < 0.0001), while in the 2nd period, RS calves had the highest cortisol concentration and vocalization rate (P < 0.05). Similarly, during the 1st period, a greater percentage of RS and TS cows were observed close to the fence line than CS cows (P < 0.0001), with TS cows vocalizing the most (P = 0.001). In the 2nd period, RS cows had greater cortisol concentration than TS (P = 0.037) and CS cows (P = 0.003). More TS and CS cows than RS were observed close to the fence line (P = 0.03 and P = 0.05). On Day 150, TS calves and cows vocalized more than RS and CS animals (P < 0.0001). Before calf-cow separation, 27 out of 45 cows were cycling (CS = 10; RS = 6; TS = 11). After separation, 12 of the remaining 18 cows resumed ovarian activity (CS = 3; RS = 5; TS = 4), and all cows were cycling after estrous synchronization treatment. The pregnancy rate was similar between CS, RS, and TS (60, 53, and 60% respectively). In conclusion, temporary separation increased calf distress response to definitive weaning even four months later, while restricted suckling seemed to reduce it.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Pérez-Torres
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, D.F, Mexico; Programa de becas posdoctorales en la UNAM (POSDOC), Mexico
| | - P Ortiz
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, D.F, Mexico
| | - J F Martínez
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, D.F, Mexico
| | - A Orihuela
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca, Morelos 62210, Mexico.
| | - I Rubio
- Centro de Enseñanza Investigación y Extensión en Ganadería Tropical, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlapacoyan, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - M Corro
- Centro de Enseñanza Investigación y Extensión en Ganadería Tropical, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Tlapacoyan, Veracruz, Mexico
| | - C S Galina
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510 México, D.F, Mexico
| | - R Ungerfeld
- Departamento de Biociencias Veterinarias, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de la República, Lasplaces 1620, 11600 Montevideo, Uruguay
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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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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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Beaver A, Meagher RK, von Keyserlingk MAG, Weary DM. Invited review: A systematic review of the effects of early separation on dairy cow and calf health. J Dairy Sci 2019; 102:5784-5810. [PMID: 31079908 PMCID: PMC7094284 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2018-15603] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Concern from the public is growing regarding early cow-calf separation, yet proponents of this practice maintain that artificial rearing is critical for cow and calf health. Early separation is assumed to reduce the risk of transfer of pathogens from dam to neonatal calf, but a wide range of health benefits associated with extended cow-calf contact has also been documented. The aim of this systematic review was to report and synthesize conclusions from the literature on dairy cow and calf health in conventional rearing versus cow-calf contact systems. Peer-reviewed, published manuscripts, written in English, directly comparing dairy cow or calf health in artificial versus suckling systems, were eligible for inclusion. We conducted 7 targeted searches using Web of Science to identify key literature on important health conditions. The resulting manuscripts underwent a 4-step appraisal process, and further manuscripts were sourced from reference lists. This process resulted in a final sample of 70 articles that addressed cow and calf health. Sufficient literature was available to assess mastitis in cows, and scours, cryptosporidiosis, Johne's disease, pneumonia, immunity, and mortality in calves. The results for cryptosporidiosis, pneumonia, immunity, and mortality were mixed, with some differences between studies likely attributable to flawed comparisons between cohorts. Overall, the articles addressing calf scours and mastitis pointed to beneficial or no effects of suckling. The studies addressing Johne's disease did not find cow-calf contact to be a significant risk factor. In conclusion, the scientific peer-reviewed literature on cow and calf health provides no consistent evidence in support of early separation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annabelle Beaver
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4 Canada
| | - Rebecca K Meagher
- School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, University of Reading, Whiteknights, PO Box 217, Reading, Berkshire, RG6 6AH, United Kingdom
| | - Marina A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4 Canada
| | - Daniel M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, BC, V6T 1Z4 Canada.
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Orihuela A, Galina CS. Effects of Separation of Cows and Calves on Reproductive Performance and Animal Welfare in Tropical Beef Cattle. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E223. [PMID: 31071919 PMCID: PMC6562594 DOI: 10.3390/ani9050223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Nursing a calf suppresses postpartum ovarian activity prolonging the period of anestrus. Diverse methods are used to reduce the effect of suckling; the most popular, restricted suckling, reduces the number of encounters mother-calf. Temporal weaning of the calf for periods of 24 h, 48 h, or even 72 h also suppress the effect of suckling and is commonly applied to cow-calf operations in the tropics. Early weaning of the calf, usually three to five months after birth, is a practice gaining popularity over the traditional system of weaning at seven months. Furthermore, the use of nose-flaps in the calf to avoid suckling is a common procedure in South America. Finally, weaning during the first week after calving is an established method to reduce postpartum anestrus. The objective of the present review is to discuss the effects of these methods on the reproductive performance of beef cattle and their animal welfare implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agustín Orihuela
- Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Av. Universidad 1001, Colonia Chamilpa, Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Carlos S Galina
- Departamento de Reproducción, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, Ciudad de México 04510, Mexico.
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21
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Engmann O. Dairy cows - an opportunity in the research field of non-genetic inheritance? ENVIRONMENTAL EPIGENETICS 2018; 4:dvy014. [PMID: 30034822 PMCID: PMC6049035 DOI: 10.1093/eep/dvy014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2018] [Revised: 03/04/2018] [Accepted: 04/25/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
More than 1 billion cattle are raised annually for meat and milk production. Dairy cows are repeatedly impregnated and separated from their calves, usually within the first 24 h after birth. Here, I suggest that dairy cows undergo a procedure comparable to the 'Maternal separation combined with unpredictable maternal stress' paradigm (MSUS), which is used to study the non-genetic inheritance (NGI) of phenotypes in rodents. I discuss what research on dairy cows may bring to the research field of NGI. The resulting research findings are likely to have benefits to our understanding of MSUS, NGI and consumer safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olivia Engmann
- Brain Research Institute, Faculty of Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurer Strasse 190, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Almeida ACD, Santos CAD, Menezes IR, Teixeira LM, Costa JPR, Souza RMD. PERFIL SANITÁRIO DE UNIDADES AGRÍCOLAS FAMILIARES PRODUTORAS DE LEITE CRU E ADEQUAÇÃO À LEGISLAÇÃO VIGENTE. CIÊNCIA ANIMAL BRASILEIRA 2016. [DOI: 10.1590/1089-6891v17i314597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Resumo A região norte de Minas Gerais caracteriza-se por ser uma entre as regiões do país que têm o leite como um dos principais geradores de renda pela agricultura familiar. Para que o leite produzido tenha competitividade no mercado e tenha maior valor agregado, a agricultura familiar deve se adequar para atender os parâmetros legais vigentes. Teve-se como objetivo caracterizar o manejo produtivo geral adotado em unidades agrícolas familiares nos municípios de Bocaiúva, Francisco Sá e Montes Claros, no norte de Minas Gerais, identificando os entraves para a produção de leite dentro dos parâmetros estabelecidos pela legislação vigente. O sistema de produção foi avaliado por meio de coleta de dados em questionários e listas de verificação nos diferentes ambientes envolvidos com a produção. A qualidade microbiológica foi avaliada através da enumeração de microrganismos indicadores aeróbios mesófilos, psicrotróficos, Staphylococcus sp e coliformes fecais em leite cru, leite cru refrigerado, água e utensílios utilizados para produção. Os resultados da análise microbiológica associada às práticas de manejo adotadas revelaram que a principal causa da contaminação do leite era o emprego inadequado ou a ausência de boas práticas de higiene no sistema de produção, sendo este o principal entrave ao atendimento das exigências legais para o produto.
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Is rearing calves with the dam a feasible option for dairy farms?—Current and future research. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cozma A, Martin B, Cirié C, Verdier-Metz I, Agabriel J, Ferlay A. Influence of the calf presence during milking on dairy performance, milk fatty acid composition, lipolysis and cheese composition in Salers cows during winter and grazing seasons. J Anim Physiol Anim Nutr (Berl) 2016; 101:949-963. [DOI: 10.1111/jpn.12530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 04/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Cozma
- UMR 1213 Herbivores; INRA; Saint-Genès-Champanelle France
- UMR Herbivores; VetAgro Sup; Clermont-Ferrand France
- Department of Bromatology, Hygiene, Nutrition; Faculty of Pharmacy; ‘Iuliu Haţieganu’ University of Medicine and Pharmacy; Cluj-Napoca Romania
| | - B. Martin
- UMR 1213 Herbivores; INRA; Saint-Genès-Champanelle France
- UMR Herbivores; VetAgro Sup; Clermont-Ferrand France
| | - C. Cirié
- UE1296 Monts d'Auvergne; INRA; Orcival France
| | | | - J. Agabriel
- UMR 1213 Herbivores; INRA; Saint-Genès-Champanelle France
- UMR Herbivores; VetAgro Sup; Clermont-Ferrand France
| | - A. Ferlay
- UMR 1213 Herbivores; INRA; Saint-Genès-Champanelle France
- UMR Herbivores; VetAgro Sup; Clermont-Ferrand France
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25
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Pérez-Torres L, Orihuela A, Corro M, Rubio I, Alonso MA, Galina CS. Effects of separation time on behavioral and physiological characteristics of Brahman cows and their calves. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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26
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Milk processing quality of suckled/milked goats: effects of milk accumulation interval and milking regime. J DAIRY RES 2016; 83:173-9. [PMID: 27056664 DOI: 10.1017/s0022029916000157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Milk with a high concentration of fat and casein is required for cheese production, and these components have a major impact for both quality and yield of the curd. Recent observations have shown that suckling can elevate milk fat concentration in goats and our aim was therefore to check the hypothesis that animal welfare and cheese-processing properties of goat milk could be optimised by appropriate management of suckled/milked goats. Twelve Swedish dairy goats were kept together with one kid each in 4 different mixed management-systems (milking combined with partial suckling) in a cross-over design. Two milk accumulation intervals were tested; Short = dams and kids were together for 16 h (T16) and Long = ; dams and kids were together for 8 h (T8 h). In addition, two milking regimes were used; Suckled Before Milking = S and Milked Before Suckling = M. Milk accumulation interval referred to how long dams and kids were separated. The milk yield available for processing (milk offtake), was weighed and analysed from each milking occasion and the suckled milk yield was estimated by a weigh-suckle-weigh method (WSW) in combination with observing the suckling behaviour during the free suckling periods. Milking managements, such as 'suckling before milking (S)', increased milk fat concentration compared to milking before suckling (M) and 'Short accumulation treatments (T16)' gave higher milk fat, casein concentration and individual curd yield (%) compared to the 'Long accumulation treatment (T8)'. The total individual curd yield (g) was the same despite treatment, but the animal welfare was most likely higher in T16 where dams and kids spent more time together.
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27
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Rushen J, Wright R, Johnsen JF, Mejdell CM, de Passillé AM. Reduced locomotor play behaviour of dairy calves following separation from the mother reflects their response to reduced energy intake. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.01.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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28
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29
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Zobel G, Weary DM, Leslie KE, von Keyserlingk MAG. Invited review: Cessation of lactation: Effects on animal welfare. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:8263-77. [PMID: 26409963 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2015-9617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Accepted: 08/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
The forced cessation of milk production, or dry-off, is a routine management practice in dairy cattle, sheep, and goats. This practice initiates a dry period, during which the animal is not milked. Milking begins again after parturition. Most of the literature on the dry period has focused on how various drying-off strategies affect milk production and disease; little work to date has addressed how dry-off affects the overall welfare of the dairy animal. The first aim of this review was to present an overview of the importance of dry-off and how it is commonly achieved. Our review shows that much scientific progress has been made in improving health status between lactations. The second aim was to identify important gaps in the literature, of which 2 key research disparities have been identified. We find that much of the work to date has focused on cattle and very little research has examined dry-off in dairy sheep and goats. We also find a lack of research addressing how common dry-off methodologies affect animal welfare on more than just a biological level, regardless of species.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Zobel
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - D M Weary
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - K E Leslie
- Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Stewart Building, Guelph, ON, N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - M A G von Keyserlingk
- Animal Welfare Program, Faculty of Land and Food Systems, University of British Columbia, 2357 Main Mall, Vancouver, British Columbia, V6T 1Z4, Canada.
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Tzamaloukas O, Orford M, Miltiadou D, Papachristoforou C. Partial suckling of lambs reduced the linoleic and conjugated linoleic acid contents of marketable milk in Chios ewes. J Dairy Sci 2015; 98:1739-49. [DOI: 10.3168/jds.2014-8540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2014] [Accepted: 11/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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Cozma A, Martin B, Guiadeur M, Pradel P, Tixier E, Ferlay A. Influence of calf presence during milking on yield, composition, fatty acid profile and lipolytic system of milk in Prim’Holstein and Salers cow breeds. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s13594-012-0094-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
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Fröberg S, Lidfors L, Svennersten-Sjaunja K, Olsson I. Performance of free suckling dairy calves in an automatic milking system and their behaviour at weaning. ACTA AGR SCAND A-AN 2011. [DOI: 10.1080/09064702.2011.632433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Lidfors LM, Jung J, de Passillé AM. Changes in suckling behaviour of dairy calves nursed by their dam during the first month post partum. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2010.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Mendoza A, Cavestany D, Roig G, Ariztia J, Pereira C, La Manna A, Contreras DA, Galina CS. Effect of restricted suckling on milk yield, composition and flow, udder health, and postpartum anoestrus in grazing Holstein cows. Livest Sci 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2009.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Influence of artificial vs. mother-bonded rearing on sucking behaviour, health and weight gain in calves. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2009.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Behaviour of dairy calves suckling the dam in a barn with automatic milking or being fed milk substitute from an automatic feeder in a group pen. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2008.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
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