NEGATIVE IMPACT OF LAMENESS ON FERTILITY OUTCOMES AND EARLY PREGNANCY LOSS IN DAIRY COWS

Abstract

Lameness in dairy cows exerts a negative influence upon the capacity for the dairy cow to demonstrate an optimum fertility status. Lameness impedes the prospect for a dairy cow to successfully grow an embryo and ultimately produce a healthy calf. Therefore, efforts to reduce the levels of lameness within the herd represent a primary consideration for farmers as they strive to secure economic viability. There are different modes of action of lameness which; acting together serve as a detrimental force against the health and well-being of the dairy cow. Lameness causes behavioural changes such as reduced feeding times which subsequently diminishes energy levels and leads to poor reproductive outcomes.