Effects of Lameness on Fertility and Performance of Dairy Cattle in Tanzania

Abstract

The effects of lameness on reproductive efficiency and economic performance in dairy cattle in 40 milking cows were closely monitored for a period of 2 years. Clinical examination for lameness was carried out regularly. In addition health and breeding records were analysed in order to investigate the association between lameness, production and fertility. Ovarian activity, oestrus cyclicity and pregnancy rate were assessed by rectal examination of the genital organs once a fortnight. Progesterone hormone analysis was used to supplement results in early pregnancy. The herd had a high incidence of lameness mainly caused by laminitis, sole ulcers, white line disease and dermatitis interdigitalis. Lameness was associated with ovarian inactivity, long calving interval (465±40 days), low pregnancy rate (0.50), decreased milk production, longer calving to service interval, more services per conception. Both lameness and infertility led to high costs of medication and high culling rates, consequently contributing greatly to a net negative profit income. The study suggests that lameness could be an important cause of infertility and reduced milk production in dairy herds.