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Tail-docking alters fly numbers, fly-avoidance behaviors, and cleanliness, but not physiological measures
S D Eicher1, J L Morrow-Tesch, J L Albright
1USDA-ARS, Livestock Behavior Research Unit, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA. spruiett@purdue.edu
Journal of Dairy Science
|August 24, 2001
Summary
Tail docking in cows improves cleanliness but increases fly counts. Docked cows exhibit more fly-avoidance behaviors, including foot stomping, as fly numbers rise throughout the day.
Area of Science:
- Animal Science
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Welfare
Background:
- Tail docking is a common practice in cattle, raising animal welfare concerns.
- The impact of tail docking on fly season challenges and cow well-being requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the well-being of docked versus non-docked cows during fly season.
- To assess physiological, immunological, and behavioral responses to fly exposure in docked and non-docked cattle.
Main Methods:
- Comparison of eight tail-docked and eight non-docked cows over five days in a tie-stall barn.
- Monitoring of fly counts, behavioral observations (tail swings, foot stomps, rumination, standing), and cleanliness scores.
- Analysis of blood samples for immunological markers (lymphocyte phenotypes, acute-phase proteins, immunoglobulins).
Main Results:
- Docked cows were significantly cleaner than non-docked cows.
- Higher total and rear leg fly counts were observed on docked cows.
- Docked cows showed increased fly-avoidance behaviors, including foot stomping, particularly as fly numbers increased.
- No significant differences were found in immunological parameters between groups.
Conclusions:
- While tail docking improves cow cleanliness, it may increase fly exposure and necessitate alternative fly-avoidance behaviors.
- Foot stomping emerged as a distinct fly-avoidance behavior in docked cows.
- Tail docking's overall impact on well-being during fly season warrants a nuanced understanding, considering both cleanliness and behavioral adaptations.
