Body condition score, parity, shelter cleanliness and male proximity: Highly associated non-genetic factors with post-partum anestrus in Murrah buffalo in field conditions

Abstract

Postpartum anestrus (PPA) is a major reproductive problem in buffalo. Although both genetic and non-genetic factors influence the incidence of PPA, identifying associated non-genetic factors would be helpful for effective management of this problem. No systematic study, however, has been conducted to identify the association of non-genetic factors with PPA in buffalo, especially in field conditions. Data for 39 variables affecting postpartum anestrus interval (PPAI), health, nutrition, management and environmental status of the animals were collected on 575 buffalo from 15 villages. Data were analyzed using a general linear model considering PPAI as a dependent variable and the remaining 38 non-genetic parameters as independent variables. The results from the analysis indicated body condition score (BCS) variables, such as pelvic girdle score (P < 0.0001) and girth (P < 0.05), parity (P < 0.0001), shelter cleanliness (P < 0.001), male proximity (P < 0.005), amount and frequency of concentrate feeding during the early postpartum period (P < 0.05), general feeding frequency in a day (P < 0.05) and the treatments with oxytocin at the time of milking to facilitate milk release from the udder (P < 0.05) were associated with PPAI in Murrah buffalo. Plotting the PPAI residuals indicated the possibility of other unexplained factors, including genetics, that could also affect the differences in values for this variables in Murrah buffalo. In conclusion, a greater understanding of associated non-genetic factors with PPAI would help farmers in conducting proper managemental practices for early induction of reproductive cycles following parturition in Murrah buffalo.