Cow infertility rife

5 November 1999

Cow infertility rife

GOOD autumn weather combined with an adverse economic climate may be behind a recent spate of cattle infertility problems reported by the National Animal Disease Information Service.

Cystic ovaries are a particular problem, according to vet Tony Andrews. "Cystic ovaries are up 120% on last month; this is equivalent to 15% of a herds cows being affected. In well managed herds the figure should be less than 5%."

Cows with cystic ovaries are either seen bulling more frequently than usual or dont come into oestrus at all. In the first case, it is more obvious that something is wrong and cows are treated earlier, but where cows are not bulling the problem may not be recognised until later, says Dr Andrews.

For cows not showing signs of bulling within the expected time after calving, cystic ovaries, requiring vet intervention may be the cause.

"Where cystic ovaries are not diagnosed until six to eight weeks after calving, insemination may be two to three weeks later than the optimum time." The cost of treating cows and the longer calving interval resulting from the condition is £50 a cow, he adds.

Poor nutrition in the dry period is largely to blame, according to Dr Andrews. "Where cows are in energy deficit in the dry period, ovaries do not work as well as they should, leading to cystic ovaries."

Fair autumn weather and cost cutting has meant some cows have remained at grass with little supplementation in the dry period. Autumn grass has a low nutritional value and inadequate energy intake has led to cows losing condition, he says.

"Where you are not sure whether cows are receiving enough energy, get blood samples taken from half a dozen. When vets are on farm for routine fertility work this costs £10-£15 an animal."