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Intrapartum Risk Factors for Calf Morbidity and Mortality in Dairy Cattle: A Systematic Review (2000-2025)
Lukas Trzebiatowski1, Markus Freick2, Karsten Donat1,3
1Veterinary Clinic for Reproductive Medicine and Neonatology, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, 35392 Giessen, Germany.
Veterinary Sciences
|June 26, 2026
Summary
Calving management and dystocia significantly impact calf health and survival rates. Improved monitoring and management practices can reduce calf morbidity and mortality, enhancing overall herd health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Calf morbidity and mortality present significant challenges in livestock production.
- Intrapartum factors, including calving management and dystocia, are critical determinants of calf health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the influence of calving management, birth monitoring, birth induction, and dystocia on calf morbidity and mortality over the past 25 years.
- To identify key intrapartum factors affecting calf health and survival to weaning.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, CAB Abstracts, and Web of Science.
- Inclusion of studies focusing on calving management (16), dystocia (20), birth monitoring (8), and birth induction (4).
- Analysis of the impact of identified factors on perinatal mortality, mortality up to weaning, passive transfer of immunity, and morbidity.
Main Results:
- All examined factors influenced perinatal mortality.
- Dystocia significantly increased mortality risk, with severe cases raising it from 11.2 to 53.17.
- Good calving management and birth monitoring reduced morbidity and improved passive transfer of immunity.
Conclusions:
- Intrapartum factors, particularly dystocia and calving management, have a profound influence on calf morbidity and mortality.
- Implementing improved calving management and birth monitoring strategies can enhance calf health and survival.
- Dystocia is identified as the most influential factor affecting calf health parameters.
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