Descriptive epidemiology of anestrus in Michigan Holstein-Friesian cattle

Twenty-two Michigan Holstein-Friesian herds were studied to determine the incidence and epidemiology of anestrus. In 3,309 lactations studied, 42% were classified as having exhibited preservice anestrus (no estrus detected by 70 d after calving). Organic reasons (pyometra, cystic follicles, static ovaries) were identified by palpation per rectum for 237 (23%) of the cows with preservice anestrus that were examined by a veterinarian. Postservice anestrus, defined as failure to show estrus within 35 d after an unsuccessful insemination, was identified in 790 (47%) of 1,691 lactations. Veterinary examination identified 104 (20%) of postservice anestrous cows as having this condition because of organic causes. The average cow with preservice anestrus had an increase of 30 d open compared to her herdmates, and the average cow with postservice anestrus had an increase of 37 d open. Anestrous cows produced more milk than their unaffected herdmates in both the current and the previous lactation. Analysis of composite lactation curves indicates that, for preservice anestrus, this additional milk production was obtained gradually over the entire lactation. Anestrous cows were culled at a significantly higher rate than their herdmates. Cows with preservice anestrus were more likely to have begun their lactation in the spring months.