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Methods and on-farm devices to predict calving time in cattle
Marie Saint-Dizier1, Sylvie Chastant-Maillard2
1AgroParisTech, Génétique Elevage Reproduction, Paris, France; UR85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, INRA, Nouzilly, France.
Veterinary Journal (London, England : 1997)
|July 13, 2015
Summary
Accurate calving prediction in livestock is vital for welfare and profitability. Methods like monitoring pelvic ligament relaxation, hormone levels, and cow behavior aid in timely calving detection and management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Livestock Management
Background:
- Accurate prediction of calving time is crucial for livestock profitability and animal welfare.
- Current methods for predicting calving within 24 hours include pelvic ligament relaxation and hormone assays (progesterone, oestradiol-17β).
- Predicting the absence of calving within 12-24 hours involves monitoring vaginal temperature decrease and combining pelvic ligament relaxation with teat filling assessments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current methods for predicting calving time in livestock.
- To evaluate the potential of continuous monitoring systems and behavioral changes for calving management.
- To assess the performance of available calving detection devices in field conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on calving prediction techniques.
- Analysis of physiological and behavioral indicators associated with parturition.
- Categorization and description of commercially available calving detection devices.
Main Results:
- Pelvic ligament relaxation and hormone assays are sensitive indicators for calving within 24 hours.
- Decreased vaginal temperature and teat filling are useful for predicting absence of calving.
- Behavioral changes (e.g., lying/standing, feeding, water intake) differ between dystocia and eutocia cases and can be monitored.
- Four types of calving detection devices (inclinometers, accelerometers, abdominal belts, vaginal probes) are currently available.
Conclusions:
- Physiological and behavioral monitoring offers significant potential for improving calving management.
- Further research is needed to validate the field performance and dystocia prediction capabilities of current calving detection devices.
