Oestrus management in dairy cows

Objectives of oestrus management in a dairy herd

• To obtain a calving interval as close to 365 days as possible- induction of oestrus and insemination of the maximum number of cows within an acceptable period post partum
• Sustained milk production- induction of oestrus and insemination of the maximum number of cows within an acceptable period post partum.
• Planning of lactation in the herd according to particular market demands(favourable price, seasonal products etc.) - synchronisation of oestrus and breeding of groups of cows.
• Reduce labour expenses- induction and synchronisation of oestrus for fixed time insemination. Reduces or eliminates the need for labour for oestrus detection.
• Management of embryo donors and recipients in embryo transfer programs.

Pharmacological oestrus management

Can also be used as therapeutic measure in cases of:

• post partum anoestrus
• Cystic Ovarian Disease
• Persistent corpus luteum

In cattle with active ovaries, the oestrous cycle can be manipulated through:

1. Prostaglandins
2. Combination of prostaglandins and GnRH (Ovsynch ptotocol and modifications)
3. Progestagens (progesterone and progestagens)

In dairy herds with high incidence of ovarian inactivity the following systems are recommended:

1. Ovsynch protocol and modifications
2. Progestagens (progesterone and progestagens)