Evaluation of tail paste as an oestrus detection aid using serial progesterone analysis

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Science
• Animal Reproduction

Background:

• Effective oestrus detection is crucial for dairy herd reproductive management.
• Traditional methods often have limited efficiency, impacting breeding success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of tail paste for oestrus detection in commercial dairy cows.
• To compare tail paste accuracy with unaided visual observation by stockmen.

Main Methods:

• Serial progesterone assays were conducted on 127 dairy cows over several months.
• Oestrous events were identified, and detection rates using tail paste and unaided observation were recorded.

Main Results:

• Tail paste correctly identified 81.5% of oestrous events.
• Unaided stockmen recorded only 70.2% accuracy, significantly lower than the national average (55-60%).

Conclusions:

• Tail paste offers a significant improvement in oestrus detection efficiency for dairy cows.
• Optimizing oestrus detection can enhance reproductive performance in commercial dairy operations.