Synchronization of parturition in beef cattle using delay as well as induction

Area of Science:

• Reproductive endocrinology in livestock
• Beef cattle management and production

Background:

• Synchronization of parturition in beef cattle is crucial for herd management.
• Previous methods have shown variable efficacy and potential side effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate two distinct methods for synchronizing parturition in beef cattle.
• To assess the impact of flumethasone and progesterone treatments on calving outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Experiment 1: Cows and heifers received flumethasone, progesterone, or a combination, compared to controls.
• Experiment 2: Cows received single or repeated dexamethasone injections at different gestational stages.
• Outcomes measured included gestation length, calving difficulty, retained placentas, and calf viability.

Main Results:

• Flumethasone treatment significantly increased retained placentas.
• Progesterone treatment resulted in calving assistance and dead calves, with absent uterine contractions.
• Dexamethasone treatments did not significantly differ in calving difficulty, calf mortality, or retained placentas.

Conclusions:

• Inducing parturition close to the expected date may reduce retained placentas.
• Current methods require refinement to ensure safe parturition and minimize adverse calf outcomes.
• Further research is needed to develop reliable methods for delaying parturition when necessary.