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Effect of creep-feeding on the reproductive efficiency of beef cows: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Daniel Brugnara1, Daniele Zago1, Júlio Otávio Jardim Barcellos1
1Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves Nº. 7712, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil.
Abstract:
Intensification of beef cattle production has encouraged the adoption of nutritional strategies to improve herd productivity. Creep-feeding has been used to promote calf growth, reduce dependence on maternal milk, and improve reproductive efficiency in cows. However, studies evaluating its effects on beef cow reproduction have reported inconsistent results. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of calf supplementation on reproductive efficiency in beef cows through a systematic review and meta-analysis. The study followed the PICO protocol, defined as population (beef cows), intervention (calf supplementation via creep-feeding), and outcome (pregnancy percentage). Four databases were searched: Scopus, MEDLINE/PubMed, Web of Science, and La Referencia. References were exported to Rayyan Web for duplicate removal and screening. Data were extracted and analyzed in R to estimate the relative risk of pregnancy according to calf supplementation status. Creep-feeding increased pregnancy rate (relative risk [RR] = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.02-1.10, p = 0.0028), with a greater effect in primiparous cows (RR = 1.13; 95% CI: 1.02-1.26). The calving interval was extended (standardized mean difference [SMD] = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.20-1.55, p = 0.0064). Average daily gain increased in cows whose calves received creep-feeding (SMD = 0.19; 95% CI: 0.05-0.32, p = 0.0025), whereas body condition score and milk production were not significantly affected. These findings suggest that creep-feeding may improve reproductive performance and weight gain, particularly in primiparous cows.
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