Welfare on Dairy Cows in Different Housing Systems: Emphasis on Digestive Parasitological Infections

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Parasitology
• Animal Welfare

Background:

• Dairy cow welfare is influenced by housing and health.
• Parasitic infections can negatively affect animal well-being.
• Understanding these relationships is key for sustainable dairy farming.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess dairy cow welfare indicators in different management systems.
• To determine the prevalence of parasitic infections.
• To examine the impact of infections on welfare.

Main Methods:

• Study conducted in 2024 on 45 Holstein-Friesian cows in Northern Serbia.
• Evaluated welfare using the Welfare Quality® protocol.
• Parasitological diagnostics performed on fecal samples.

Main Results:

• Pasture-based systems showed higher dirtiness; tie stalls had more integument alterations; loose housing led to increased nasal discharge.
• Identified parasites include Eimeria spp., Buxtonella sulcata, gastrointestinal strongylids, Moniezia spp., Dicrocoelium dendriticum, Fasciola hepatica, and Paramphistomum spp.
• Significant correlations found between low body condition score (BCS) and Eimeria oocysts, and nasal discharge/hairless patches with Buxtonella sulcata and Dicrocoelium dendriticum.

Conclusions:

• Dairy cow welfare issues are present across different housing systems.
• Parasitic infections are correlated with specific welfare indicators.
• Effective parasite control and improved management are needed for all housing systems.