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[Intersuckling by cattle: a literature review].
1Vakgroep Algemene Heelkunde en Heelkunde van de Grote Huisdieren, Faculteit Diergeneeskunde, Utrecht.
Tijdschrift Voor Diergeneeskunde
|April 15, 1988
Summary
Rearing methods and genetic factors significantly contribute to intersucking in dairy cattle. Avoiding symptomatic treatment and focusing on improved rearing and breeding practices are recommended for dairy herd management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Behavioral Science
Context:
- Intersucking is a complex behavior observed in dairy cattle, impacting animal welfare and productivity.
- Understanding the multifactorial causes of intersucking is crucial for effective herd management.
- Existing literature provides insights into incidence, contributing factors, and treatment options.
Purpose:
- To review and synthesize the existing literature on intersucking in cattle.
- To identify key factors contributing to the development of intersucking behavior.
- To evaluate the efficacy and ethical considerations of current treatment methods.
Summary:
- Intersucking in cattle is influenced by environmental factors (housing, feeding) and animal factors (genetics, social behavior).
- Rearing practices, such as bucket feeding and early group housing, alongside genetic predisposition, are identified as primary etiological factors in mature dairy cattle.
- Symptomatic treatments are often unsuccessful and ethically questionable, suggesting a focus on preventative measures.
Impact:
- Highlights the importance of improved rearing techniques and genetic selection in breeding programs to mitigate intersucking.
- Recommends against indiscriminate symptomatic treatment due to limited success and ethical concerns.
- Underscores the need for further etiological research, including longitudinal studies, to understand the inheritance and development of intersucking behavior.