Body Condition Score Change Research Articles

Association between body condition score fluctuations and pregnancy loss in Holstein cows.

The objective of this study was to characterize the associations between body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (∆BCS), determined by an automated camera system during early lactation and close to artificial insemination (AI), and the subsequent pregnancy loss (PL) in Holstein cows. A secondary objective was to determine the impact of disease on PL, considering multiple time periods relative to AI. Data from 9,430 lactations in 6,884 Holstein cows in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado, USA were included in this retrospective observational study. Cows were subject to first AI at about 80 DIM (primiparous) and 60 DIM (multiparous), following a double OvSynch protocol. Pregnancy diagnosis was performed via transrectal ultrasonography on day 32 ± 3 after AI and reconfirmed on day 80 ± 3 after AI. Cameras mounted on the sorting gate at each exit (n = 2) of the milking parlor generated BCS on a five-point scale with 0.1 increments. The BCS at calving (BCS1), 21 DIM (BCS21), 56 DIM (BCS56), AI resulting in pregnancy (BCSAI), and 90 d post AI (BCSAI90) were selected for the analyses and subsequently categorized as low (≤ lower quartile), moderate (interquartile range), and high (≥ upper quartile). Changes in BCS were calculated by periods of interest as change from calving to 21 DIM; change from calving to 56 DIM; change from 56 DIM to AI; and change from AI to 90 d post AI and assigned into categories to facilitate the analysis. Data were examined using logistic regression, considering parity category, season at calving and AI, DIM at AI, milk yield up to 60 DIM, and occurrence of disease as covariables. The logistic regression analyses indicated that the odds of PL were greater in cows in the low BCS category relative to cows in the high BCS category at 56 DIM (OR 95% CI = 1.41 [1.12-1.79]), AI (1.31 [1.05-1.65]), and 90 d post AI (1.38 [1.10-1.74]). Likewise, cows with large loss in BCS between calving and 21 DIM (1.46 [1.10-1.94]) and loss in BCS between AI and 90 d post AI (1.44 [1.15-1.81]) had greater odds of PL compared with cows with no loss of BCS within the same period. Occurrence of disease at all the time periods considered in the analysis had a consistent detrimental impact on maintenance of the pregnancy, supporting the concept that pre and postconceptional disease affects embryonic survival. Overall, low BCS, more pronounced reductions in BCS occurring closer to AI, and occurrence of disease resulted in greater PL in this Holstein population.

Effects of dietary energy density and feeding strategy during the dry period on feed intake, energy balance, milk production, and blood metabolites of Holstein cows

Our study aimed to assess the effects of dietary energy density and strategy of delivery during the dry period on production and metabolic responses of Holstein cows free of displacement of abomasum, retained placenta, metritis, or hypocalcemia. Twenty-seven multiparous cows dried-off 50 d before calving were assigned randomly to 1 of 3 dietary treatments: a controlled energy, high-fiber diet [CE; 1.39 Mcal net energy for lactation (NEL)/kg of dry matter (DM)] formulated to supply 100% of the NEL requirement at ad libitum intake; or a higher energy diet (1.58 Mcal/kg) fed either at ad libitum (HE) or restricted (RE) intake to supply ∼150 or 80% of the NEL requirements, respectively. After calving, all cows were fed the same lactation diet. Cows were individually fed and remained in the study until 28 d postpartum. Data were analyzed using 2 contrasts: CE versus HE (effect of diet composition in cows fed for ad libitum DM intake) and HE versus RE (effect of ad libitum or restricted intake of the same diet). Prepartum intakes of DM and NEL as well as energy balance (EB), were greater for HE than CE and greater for HE than RE. Body weight (BW) gain was higher in HE than in RE, but CE and HE did not differ. Change in body condition score did not differ between CE and HE or HE and RE. Postpartum intakes of DM and NEL, EB, BW, body condition score, calf birth BW, milk yield, and milk components did not differ between CE and HE or HE and RE. Concentrations of glucose, insulin, nonesterified fatty acids, β-hydroxybutyrate, Ca, and Mg pre- and postpartum did not differ among diets. Although sample size was low, dry period plane of energy intake affected prepartum DM intake, EB, and BW gain but did not affect postpartum intakes of DM and NEL, yields of milk and milk components, or blood metabolites in healthy cows.

Effects of pelleted versus loose salt-limited protein supplement on supplement intake behavior of yearling heifers grazing dryland pastures.

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the impacts of supplement form on supplement intake behavior, body weight (BW), and body condition score (BCS) change of yearling heifers grazing dryland pastures during the summer. In each of the two years, Angus crossbred heifers (14 mo of age; year 1, N = 57, BW = 449 ± 3.60 kg; year 2, N = 58, BW = 328 ± 3.57 kg) were used in a 84-d completely randomized design evaluating the following treatments: 1) control, no supplement; 2) salt-limited supplement in pelleted form; and 3) a salt-limited supplement in loose form. Individual supplement intake, and time spent at the feeder were measured throughout the course of the study using a SmartFeed Pro self-feeder system (C-Lock Inc., Rapid City, SD, USA). On days 0, 42, and 84, the heifers were weighed, and body condition scored following a 16-h shrink. Supplementation and form of supplement did not influence (P ≥ 0.62) BW change for yearling heifers within or across study grazing periods. Body condition score was not influenced (P ≥ 0.26) by supplementation and form within the 0 to 42 (period 1) or 42 to 84 (period 2)-d periods but displayed a treatment by year interaction (P < 0.01) for the 84-d summer grazing period. Supplement intake (kg/d and g/kg BW) displayed a treatment × period interaction (P < 0.01). Supplement intake (kg/d) of heifers consuming pelleted supplement was 28% and 31% greater (P ≤ 0.02) than heifers consuming loose supplement in periods 1 and 2, respectively. Supplement intake (g/kg BW) of heifers consuming pelleted supplement was 24% and 32% greater (P ≤ 0.05) than heifers consuming loose supplement in periods 1 and 2, respectively. Overall, across both years, supplement intake in period 1 was less than half (P < 0.01) that of period 2, averaging 0.50 and 1.14 kg/day, respectively. Variation in supplement intake (% CV) was greater (P = 0.03) in period 1 compared to period 2, averaging 119% and 91%, respectively. In addition, variation in supplement intake was greater (P = 0.03) in year 2 than year 1, averaging 122% and 88%. Our results suggest that salt-limited supplements have a high degree of intake variation and pelleting could have a masking effect as indicated by the greater intake and intake rate of supplement with heifers consuming the pelleted supplement.

FACTORS THAT AFFECT THE RESUMPTION OF THE POSTPARTUM OVARIAN ACTIVITY AND PREGNANCY RATE IN DUAL-PURPOSE COWS IN SOUTHEAST OF MEXICO

&lt;pre&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Background. &lt;/strong&gt;The resumption of ovarian activity after parturition is related to reproductive efficiency. &lt;strong&gt;Objective.&lt;/strong&gt; To determine the effect of breed group and some non-genetic factor on resumption of ovarian activity and pregnancy rate of dual-purpose cows. &lt;strong&gt;Methodology. &lt;/strong&gt;In study 1, 37 cows were sampled biweekly, from the day 15 to 150 postpartum or until a corpus luteum (CL) was detected. Follicular population (FP), maximum follicle diameter (MFD) and maximum CL diameter (MCLD) were also measured. In study 2, 71 cows were pregnancy diagnosed. Chi&lt;/pre&gt;&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt;&lt;pre&gt; tests and analyses of variance were performed to determine the effects of breed group, parity number, body condition score (BCS), BCS change (BCSC) and body weight change (BWC) on the dependent variables. &lt;strong&gt;Results. &lt;/strong&gt;In study 1, aproximately, 84% of cows resumed ovarian activity at 68.3 days. More CL were found in multiparous cows (92.59%) and those with BCS ≥3.0 (95.83%). No differences were found in the FP and MFD. F1 cows had the largest MCLD (19.51 mm). In study 2, pregnancy rate was higher in cows with 2-3 (47.83%) and ≥4 parities (54.55%), F1 (54.29%) cows, those gaining BCS (64.29%) and high body weight (66.67%).&lt;strong&gt; Implications. &lt;/strong&gt;Results suggest that primiparous cows and those with BCS ≤2.5 require better management; therefore, strategies must be established to improve reproductive efficiency. &lt;strong&gt;Conclusion.&lt;/strong&gt; Primiparous and cows with BCS ≤2.5 delayed the first ovulation. Multiparous, F1 cows, those gaining BCS and body weight after calving had the highest pregnancy rate.&lt;/pre&gt;&lt;pre&gt; &lt;/pre&gt;

Influence of body condition score and its change after parturition on pregnancy rates to fixed-timed artificial insemination in Bos indicus beef cows

This experiment evaluated pregnancy rates to fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI) in Bos indicus beef cows according to their body condition score (BCS) at calving and subsequent change until 30 days after FTAI. Non-pregnant, suckling Nelore cows (n = 593 primiparous, 461 secundiparous, and 893 multiparous) were evaluated for BCS at calving and FTAI, and at 30 days after FTAI when cow pregnancy status was verified. Cow BCS at calving was subtracted from BCS recorded at pregnancy diagnosis, and cows classified as those that lost BCS (L), maintained BCS (M), or gained BCS (G) during this period. Cows that calved with BCS ≥ 5.0 had greater (P < 0.01) BCS throughout the experiment, and greater (P < 0.01) pregnancy rates to FTAI compared with cows that calved with BCS < 5.0 (54.8 vs. 34.2%). Pregnancy rates to FTAI were greater (P < 0.01) for G and M cows compared with L cows (50.0%, 47.5%, and 36.0%, respectively), and similar (P = 0.46) between G and M cows. Moreover, pregnancy rates to FTAI in G cows that calved with BCS < 5.0 were less compared with L (tendency; P = 0.08) and M cows (P < 0.01) that calved with BCS ≥ 5.0 (42.2%, 48.3%, and 58.3%, respectively). In summary, pregnancy rates to FTAI were greater in B. indicus cows that calved with a BCS ≥ 5.0 regardless of parity and post-calving BCS change, and greater in M and G cows within those that calved with BCS < 5.0 or ≥ 5.0.

Successful Pregnancy Outcome in Mares: The Potential Role of Body Conditional Score, Age and Biochemical Parameter's Adjustments

The objective of this research was to evaluate the changes in body condition score (BCS), age and the main biochemical parameters in pregnant Spanish Purebred mares. A total of 45 pregnant Spanish broodmares has been studied, classified in three different groups: group A (n=15), aging 14-18 years old and BCS lower than 4 of 10, group B (n=15), with ages of 4 to 8 years and a BCS of 5-6/10, and group C (n=15), aging between 6 and 11 years and a BCS of 8 of 10. Three pregnancy periods were considered: the 1st period, from the 1st to the 3rd, the 2nd from the 4th to the 6th, and the last period, from the 7th month of pregnancy to delivery. Blood samples were taken every month along the pregnancy. The following plasma biochemical parameters were measured: triglycerides, total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein-cholesterol, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, total, direct and indirect bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase, γ-glutamyl transferase, alkaline phosphatase, total plasma proteins, albumin, glucose, urea and creatinine. Pregnancy in the Spanish broodmare induced hyperlipidemia with hypertriglyceridemia and increased plasma concentrations of total, direct and indirect bilirubin (P < .05). Older pregnant mares showed biochemical changes probably consistent with decreased organ functionality (P < .05). Obesity did not influence lipidic metabolism during pregnancy (P > .05).

Exploring the Relationship between Changes in Postpartum BCS (Body Condition Score) and Reproductive Performance in Dairy Herds

The current research aims to explore the effects of Body condition score (BCS) reduction on some reproductive factors such as re-pregnancy rate, number of inseminations per pregnancy, clinical endometritis, and ovarian activity in Holstein cows and also the effects of number of calving and its difficulty, on changes in the BCS. Data analysis with spss 21 software shows that with a further decrease in BCS first month after delivery, the percentage of non-pregnant cases in the herd and the number of cows with inactive ovaries increases significantly. The rate of endometritis significantly increases by increasing negative changes in BCS by 0.5 units or more. The number of inseminations necessary for creating pregnancy in two groups of decrease in BCS was different with a statistically significant difference. The odds ratios of developing clinical endometritis and also inactive ovaries in cows with BCS changes&lt; 0.5 were significantly greater. In addition, odds ratios of pregnancy with finally 3 inseminations in cows with changes in BCS ≤ 0.5 were significantly different from cows with higher BCS changes. BCS changes of cows in second calving were not significantly different from cows in first calving, while the changes in calving 3 and 4 were significantly different. Easy parturition and parturition with some help was not different in BCS changes but dystocia but dystocia has been associated with significant BCs changes (P&lt;0.05). According to these results, it can be concluded that a further reduction in BCS was associated with a reduction in the reproductive performance.

An Analysis Different Levels of Crude Protein Content of Concentrate Feed

A research was done to study body performance responses of selected Donggala cows to different dietary crude protein content of concentrate feed. Twenty selected Donggala cows with an initial body weights range of 278.6(36.97) kg were used. The animals also had body condition score of 2.63(0.29), body length of 129.85(6.38) cm, shoulder height of 124.8(5.74) cm, bust of 157.45(8.7) cm, and hip width of 37.83(3.4) cm. The animals were arranged in a 4 x 5 randomized block design with 5 dietary treatments differing in crude protein content of concentrate feed (12, 14, 16, 18 or 20 percent). Animals grouping was based on their initial body weights. During the experiment which lasted for 8 weeks, the animals were fed on a ration consisting of 25 percent elephant grass and 75 percent concentrate mix. Results of the experiment indicated that total and daily animals body weight gain, and changes in body condition scores were significantly affected (P<0.01) by the dietary crude protein content of feed. The highest overall and daily body weight gains were obtained at the crude protein level of 18%, while that of changes in body condition score were obtained at the crude protein level of 18%. The dietary crude protein levels did not affect (P > 0.05) animals body dimension measures. It may be concluded that the best dietary protein content of concentrate feed for an optimum body performance in Donggala cows before mating is 18 percent.

Effects of early or conventional weaning on beef cow and calf performance in pasture or drylot environments.

Performance of cows and calves during 63-d early or conventional weaning periods was evaluated. Spring-calving beef cows (n = 167) of similar age, body condition score (BCS), and body weight (BW = 599 ± 54.5 kg), and their calves (initial BW = 204 ± 26.7 kg; 153 ± 15 d of age) were assigned randomly to 1 of 4 weaning treatments: weaning at 153 d of age followed by 56 days of limit feeding in confinement (E-D), confinement of cow and calf for a 56-d period of limit feeding followed by weaning at 209 d of age (C-D), weaning at 153 d of age followed by a 56-d grazing period (E-P), and a 56-d grazing period for both cow and calf followed by weaning at 209 d of age (C-P). Cows and calves assigned to pasture treatments grazed native range pastures without supplement. Cows and calves assigned to drylot treatments were fed complete diets. Calves assigned to E-D were fed a concentrate-based diet at 2.5% of BW, whereas cows assigned to E-D were fed a forage-based diet at 1.6% of BW. Cows assigned to C-D were offered the diet fed to E-D cows at 2.0% of BW. Calf average daily gain (ADG) was influenced by diet and weaning treatments (diet × weaning, P ≤ 0.03). Cows and calves assigned to all treatments were limit fed common diets for 7 d at the end of our study to equalize gut fill. In general, calves managed in confinement and fed concentrate-based diets (i.e., E-D and C-D) had greater ADG than non-supplemented calves maintained on pasture (i.e., E-P and C-P). Cow BW and BCS change (days 0 to 63) were influenced by both diet and weaning status (P ≤ 0.05). Non-lactating cows maintained on pasture had lesser BW loss than other treatments, whereas non-lactating cows fed in confinement had lesser BCS on day 63 and greater BCS loss from days 0 to 63 than other treatments. Conversely, rump-fat depth on day 63 was greater (P < 0.01) for non-lactating cows maintained on pasture than for lactating cows in either pasture or drylot environments. Similarly, change in rump-fat depth was greatest (diet × weaning, P < 0.01) for non-lactating cows on pasture and least for lactating cows in either pasture or drylot environments. Results were interpreted to indicate that early-weaning spared cow BW and rump fat compared to weaning at conventional ages. Performance of cows appeared to be similar when limit-fed under drylot conditions or maintained in a pasture environment. Conversely, calf performance was generally greater in confinement than on pasture.

Reduced high-intensity training distance in growing horses had no effect on IGF-1 concentrations, but training onset interrupted time-dependent IGF-1 decline

This study investigated plasma insulin like growth factor (IGF)-1 concentrations in 16 young Standardbred horses introduced to systematic high-intensity training at two different levels of intensity. Growth and locomotion asymmetry and correlations between these and plasma IGF-1 concentrations were also examined. From September as 1-year olds to March as 2-year olds (Period 1), all horses were subjected to the same submaximal training program. In March (start of Period 2), the horses were divided into two groups (n=8) and one group was introduced to regular high-intensity training. The other group was introduced to a program where the high-intensity exercise distances were reduced by 30%. These two training programs were maintained for the remaining 21 months of the study (Periods 2, 3, and 4). There was no effect of training group on plasma IGF-1 concentrations. A continuous decline in IGF-1 levels was observed throughout the study (P&lt;0.0001), with one notable interruption in Period 2 when the IGF-1 concentration remained at the level seen at the start of Period 1. Growth rate of body length was equally high in Periods 1 and 2 (P&gt;0.05). Front and hind limb asymmetry was elevated in Period 2 compared with Period 1. There were positive correlations between IGF-1 concentrations and changes in body condition score, and a negative correlation between IGF-1 concentration and weight. These results indicate that introduction to high-intensity training induces IGF-1 release in horses, but that a 30% difference in the distances used in high-intensity training does not affect IGF-1 levels. The temporary interruption in decline in IGF-1 release with the onset of high-intensity training may influence growth pattern and locomotion asymmetry, but further studies are needed to assess causality.

23 Performance of Pregnant Beef Heifers During Spring Rotational Grazing of Novel Endophyte Tall Fescue Following Complete Renovation

Abstract The objective of this study was to analyze animal performance following renovation of toxic-infected tall fescue (TF) to novel endophyte tall fescue (NE) in order to increase producer adoption of NE. In 2018, three renovation strategies were implemented in a randomized complete block design. Strategies included: 1) control (C), 2) renovation to NE after one season of a single-specie cover crop (1-SM), 3) renovation to NE after three seasons of a single-specie cover crop (3-SM), and 4) renovation to NE after three seasons of a multi-specie cover crop (3-CM). Forty-eight pregnant (30-90-d) Angus heifers (initial BW 383 kg ± 32) were randomly assigned to rotationally graze spring growth for 56-d, two years after NE establishment. Pre- and post-grazing forage mass was measured every 7-d. Animal measurements were collected every 14-d. Data were analyzed using procGLIMMIX of SASv9.4. Average daily gain was greatest (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) for cattle grazing 3-CM (0.74 kg/d), 1-SM (0.72 kg/d), and 3-SM (0.62 kg/d) and least for C (0.33 kg/d). Pre-grazing forage biomass was greatest (P = 0.0157) in 3-CM (3261 kg/ha) and lowest in C (2523 kg/ha), with 3-SM (2813 kg/ha) and 1-SM (2779 kg/ha) being intermediate. Post-grazing forage biomass was greatest (P = 0.0063) in 3-CM (1982 kg/ha), C (1916 kg/ha), 1-SM (1900 kg/ha), but lower in 3-SM (1592 kg/ha). Prior to grazing, body condition score (BCS) was higher (P = 0.0029) for animals grazing C (5.48), but change in BCS of animals within treatments was not different (P = 0.798). Hair shedding scores (HS) were not different on d-0, with all treatments near 5. However, HS were highest (P &amp;lt; 0.0001) in C (4.75), and lowest in 1-SM (1.75), 3-SM (2), and 3-CM (2) after 56-d. Data suggest animal performance for NE was improved compared to TF during spring grazing in years following renovation.

Body Condition Score Change throughout Lactation Utilizing an Automated BCS System: A Descriptive Study.

Simple SummaryThe aim of this study was to implement a commercially available automated body condition scoring (ABCS) camera system to collect data for developing a predictive equation of body condition dynamics throughout the lactation period. The body condition score can vary depending on many factors relative to a specific cow. Lactation number, DIM, disease status, and 305d-predicted-milk-yield (305PMY) were significant factors to create a multivariate prediction model for automatic body condition scores throughout lactation.Body condition scoring (BCS) is a traditional visual technique often using a five-point scale to non-invasively assess fat reserves in cattle. However, recent studies have highlighted the potential in automating body condition scoring using imaging technology. Therefore, the objective was to implement a commercially available automated body condition scoring (ABCS) camera system to collect data for developing a predictive equation of body condition dynamics throughout the lactation period. Holstein cows (n = 2343, parity = 2.1 ± 1.1, calving BCS = 3.42 ± 0.24), up to 300 days in milk (DIM), were scored daily using two ABCS cameras mounted on sort-gates at the milk parlor exits. Scores were reported on a 1 to 5 scale in 0.1 increments. Lactation number, DIM, disease status, and 305d-predicted-milk-yield (305PMY) were used to create a multivariate prediction model for body condition scores throughout lactation. The equation derived from the model was: ABCSijk = 1.4838 − 0.00452 × DIMi − 0.03851 × Lactation numberj + 0.5970 × Calving ABCSk + 0.02998 × Disease Status(neg)l − 1.52 × 10−6 × 305PMYm + eijklm. We identified factors which are significant for predicting the BCS curve during lactation. These could be used to monitor deviations or benchmark ABCS in lactating dairy cows. The advantage of BCS automation is that it may provide objective, frequent, and accurate BCS with a higher degree of sensitivity compared with more sporadic and subjective manual BCS. Applying ABCS technology in future studies on commercial dairies may assist in providing improved dairy management protocols based on more available BCS.

Effects of Feeding Different Levels on Digestibility Body Weight Body Condition Score and Stool Quality in Dogs

In this study, effects of different levels of feeding on digestibility, body weight(BW), body condition score(BCS) and some stool parameters were investigated. Fifteen adult Golden Retriever dogs were divided into 3 groups. ME content of food and ME requirements of the dogs were determined by the modified Atwater factors and the FEDIAF equation(95*BW0.75). The first group was fed 50% less than daily metabolic energy requirement(MER)(1), second group was fed 100%(2) and the third group was fed 50% more than the MER(3). Trial lasted 15 days. Stools were scored and stool samples were taken in last 4 days of the study. Dry matter(DMD) and organic matter digestibilities(OMD) were determined by acid-insoluble ash indicator method. BW and BCS values were determined on the 7th and 15th days. Changes in BW and BCS between days and groups were insignificant(P>0.05). DMD and OMD values were the highest in groups 1 and 2(P<0.05). Group 1 had the highest stool score(P<0.05). There was no significant difference in stool DM levels between all groups(P>0.05). In conclusion, modified Atwater factors and formula 95*BW0.75 were sufficient to preserve BW and BCS for this 15-day study. More studies are needed to compare the different formulas used to calculate the energy needs of dogs and the energy content in their diets. BW and BCS changes should be demonstrated with long-term trials. Effects of daily amount of food determined by the formulas on digestibility and health of dogs should also be investigated.

Dynamics of automatically generated body condition scores during early lactation and pregnancy at first artificial insemination of Holstein cows

The objective of this study was to characterize the association between body condition score (BCS) and BCS change (ΔBCS), determined by an automated camera system at multiple time points, and the subsequent pregnancy per first artificial insemination (P/AI1) of Holstein cows. A retrospective observational study was completed using data collected from 11,393 lactations in 7,928 Holstein cows calving between April 2019 and March 2021 in a commercial dairy operation located in Colorado. Cows were classified as primiparous or multiparous. Scores generated by BCS cameras at dry-off, calving, 21 days in milk (DIM), 56 DIM, and first artificial insemination were selected for the analyses and subsequently categorized as low (≤lower quartile), moderate (interquartile range), and high (≥upper quartile). Changes in BCS were calculated by periods of interest as change from dry-off to calving (multiparous cows); change from calving to 21 DIM; change from calving to 56 DIM; and change from calving to first artificial insemination and assigned into categories as large loss of BCS (top 25% of cows losing BCS); moderate loss (bottom 75% of cows losing BCS); no change (ΔBCS = 0); or gain of BCS (ΔBCS > 0). Data were examined in primiparous and multiparous cows separately using logistic regression and time-to-event analyses. Initial univariable models were followed by multivariable models that considered calving season, occurrence of disease, and milk yield up to 60 DIM as covariables. The logistic regression analyses indicated that in both parity groups the associations between BCS category and P/AI1 were more evident at 21 DIM, 56 DIM, and first artificial insemination, with lower odds of P/AI1 in cows in the low BCS category. Likewise, cows with large loss in BCS between calving and 21 DIM, calving and 56 DIM, and calving and first artificial insemination had lower odds of P/AI1 compared with other categories of ΔBCS within the same period of interest. Similarly, survival analyses evidenced that cows in the low BCS category required more time to get pregnant. In agreement, differences in the dynamics of the average daily BCS during the first 90 DIM were evident when cows were grouped by first AI outcome (pregnant vs. nonpregnant) and by their time to pregnancy category (<90 DIM; 91-150 DIM; or >150 DIM), with cows with reduced fertility showing lower BCS up to 90 DIM. Overall, low BCS and more pronounced reductions in BCS occurring closer to first artificial insemination resulted in lower odds of pregnancy per artificial insemination.

Effect of Body Condition Score at Calving on Postpartum Performance of Murrah Buffaloes

Background: Body condition score (BCS) system is a subjective method to assess the body fat reserves particularly over the bony prominences like back and pelvic region. It is based on evaluation of the outer appearance of the animal that interacts with its body fat reserves and therefore is directly influenced by energy balance. Studies on the relationship between BCS and postpartum performance were meager in buffaloes. Hence, the present work was carried out to study the relationship between BCS at calving and postpartum performance in Murrah buffaloes. Methods: The effect of body condition score at calving (BCSc) on the postpartum performance was studied in 24 Murrah buffaloes grouped based on BCS, maintained at Buffalo Research Station during 2018-19. Result: The study showed that buffaloes of BCSc above 3.5 with significantly (P less than 0.01) higher body weights showed better reproductive performance compared to buffaloes of BCSc groups below 3.5 with less body weights. The prepartum and weekly postpartum changes in BCS studied showed that the buffaloes gained a BCS of 0.57 from 3 months prepartum to one week prepartum, lost 0.17 BCS due to calving, further showed a decline in BCS up to 9 weeks of postpartum and then started regaining BCS gradually until 18 weeks postpartum. The mean LBCS over the period of 18 weeks postpartum was comparatively higher (0.75±0.05) than BCS restored in the early lactation which was shown as GBCS (0.34±0.02). Buffaloes of BCSc group 3.5-3.99 showed the best reproduction performance among the four BCSc groups with less postpartum estrus period (46.66 days), service period (58.83 days), number of service per conception (1.50) and high rate of 1st service conception (66.66%).

Impacts of body condition score at beginning of fixed-timed AI protocol and subsequent energy balance on ovarian structures, estrus expression, pregnancy rate and embryo size of Bos indicus beef cows

These two studies evaluated the effects of body condition score (BCS) at beginning of fixed-timed artificial insemination (FTAI) protocol and subsequent BCS change on ovarian structures, estrus expression, pregnancy rate and embryo size of multiparous Nellore beef cows. In Experiment 1, 240 cows, distributed over four years (n = 40, 20, 82 and 98 cows, for years 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively) were assigned to FTAI protocol from d -11 to 0. Cow BCS (d -11 and 40), body weight (BW; d -11 and 40), dominant follicle (d 0) and corpus luteum (CL; d 7 and 14) size, plasma progesterone (d 7 and 14), pregnancy rate (d 40) and embryo size (d 40) were evaluated. In Experiment 2, 2443 cows (single year) were assigned to FTAI protocol from d -11 to 0. Cow BCS (d -11 and 30), BW (d -11 and 30), estrus expression (d 0), and pregnancy rate (d 30) were evaluated. BCS scale used ranged from 1 (extremely thin) to 9 (extremely fat) and the cows were categorized in groups (BCS ≥ 5 and < 5 and in lost, maintained and gained BCS). Experiment 1, cows with BCS ≥ 5 at beginning FTAI protocol tended (P ≤ 0.10) to have greater CL diameter (d 7), CL volume (d 7 and 14) and had greater (P ≤ 0.05) plasma concentration of progesterone (d 14) and embryo size (d 40), compared to cows with BCS < 5. Further, cows that gained BCS from d -11 to 40 tended (P = 0.10) to have greater dominant follicle size and cows that gained and maintained BCS had greater (P = 0.02) plasma concentration of progesterone (d 14), compared to cows that lost BCS. The embryo size was greater (P < 0.01) for cows that gained, intermediary to cows that maintained and lower to cows that lost BCS. In Experiment 2, cows with BCS ≥ 5 had greater (P = 0.02) estrus expression, compared to cows with BCS < 5, and the pregnancy rate increased linearly with BCS (P < 0.01; 20.0 to 69.1% for BCS 2 and 9, respectively). Further, cows that gained had greater (P < 0.01) estrus expression compared to cows that maintained and lost BCS, and cows that gained and maintained BCS had greater pregnancy rate compared to cows that lost BCS (P < 0.01; 62.2, 59.7 and 49.3 ± 10.3%, respectively). Thus, cows with greater BCS at beginning of FTAI protocol or that gained or maintained BCS during synchronization and after AI had greater ovarian structures development, estrus expression, pregnancy rate and embryo size.

Cyberlindnera jadinii yeast as a protein source in early- to mid-lactation dairy cow diets: Effects on feed intake, ruminal fermentation, and milk production

We examined the effects of substituting soybean meal with either yeast protein from Cyberlindnera jadinii or barley in concentrate feeds on feed intake, ruminal fermentation products, milk production, and milk composition in Norwegian Red (NRF) dairy cows. The concentrate feeds were prepared in pellet form as soy-based (SBM; where soybean meal is included as a protein ingredient), yeast-based (YEA; soybean meal replaced with yeast protein), or barley-based (BAR; soybean meal replaced with barley). The SBM contained 7.0% soybean meal on a dry matter (DM) basis. This was replaced with yeast protein and barley in the YEA and BAR concentrate feeds, respectively. A total of 48 early- to mid-lactation [days in milk ± standard deviation (SD): 103 ± 33.5 d] NRF cows in their first to fourth parity and with initial milk yield of 32.6 kg (SD = 7.7) were allocated into 3 groups, using a randomized block design, after feeding a common diet [SBM and good-quality grass silage: crude protein (CP) and neutral detergent fiber (NDF) content of 181 and 532 g/kg of DM, respectively] for 14 d (i.e., covariate period). The groups (n = 16) were then fed one of the dietary treatments (SBM, YEA, or BAR) for a period of 56 d (i.e., experimental period). The concentrate feeds were offered in split portions from 3 automatic feeders using electronic identification, with ad libitum access to the same grass silage. Dietary treatments had no effect on daily silage intake, total DM intake, or total NDF intake. Dietary CP intake was lower and starch intake was higher in the BAR group compared with the other groups. Ruminal fluid pH, short-chain volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations, acetate-to-propionate ratio, and non-glucogenic to glucogenic VFA ratio were not affected by dietary treatments. No effects of the dietary treatments were observed on body weight change, body condition score change, milk yield, energy-corrected milk yield, milk lactose and fat percentages, or their yields. In conclusion, yeast protein can substitute conventional soybean meal in dairy cow diets without adverse effect on milk production and milk composition, given free access to good-quality grass silage.

Growth Performance of Arsi, Borana, Harar and HF-Crossbred Bulls Finished under Similar Feeding Condition

The study was conducted to evaluate the fattening performance of Arsi, Borana, Harar and Holstein Friesian crossbred bulls finished under a similar feeding condition at the beef farm in Haramaya University. The average daily weight gain of the four breeds ranges from 0.49 to 0.71 kg. Feed conversion efficiency also ranges from 0.11 - 0.15. Simple linear regression models were used to explore the relationship between live body weight change and change in body condition score as well as seven linear body measurements for all age groups. An average change for a unite of body condition score was equivalent to 20.3, 20.61, 22.42 and 27.78 kg for Borana, Arsi, Harar and Holstein Friesian crossbred bulls respectively. Body condition score was significantly influenced by breeds. There was a significant breed by age interaction effect on the initial body condition score of the four breeds. There was a significant and positive strong association between change in body weight and body condition score. There was a significant and strong correlation between change in body weight and change in Total topline, neck length, heart girth, flank circumference and rump length having correlation coefficients ranges from 0.57 to 0.97. A higher net profit of 7380.47 ETB per head was recorded by Borana bulls followed by Harar bulls, Arsi and Holstein Friesian crossbred with net profit of 5406.86, 5193.29 and 3384.98 ETB per head respectively. Borana bulls are more superior in weight gain and net profit. Bodyweight change could be predicted based on body condition score change during the fattening period.

Non-Linear Change in Body Condition Score Over Lifetime is Associated with Breed in Dairy Cows in Germany

Non-Linear Change in Body Condition Score Over Lifetime is Associated with Breed in Dairy Cows in Germany

The effects of differing nutritional levels and body condition score on scrotal circumference, motility, and morphology of bovine sperm.

Bulls often experience various levels of nutrient availability throughout the year. Nutritional management is a critical factor on overall ejaculate composition and the ability to get females pregnant. We hypothesized that differing nutritional levels and body condition score (BCS) affect reproductive fertility parameters in bulls. Mature Angus bulls (n = 11) were individually housed and randomly assigned to one of two dietary regimens: 1) over-fed (n = 5) or 2) restricted (n = 6). Bulls were fed the same ration at different volumes to achieve desired effects resulting in eight individual treatments: gain to an over-fed body condition score ([BCS]; GO), gain after nutrient restriction (GR), loss after an over-fed BCS (LO), loss from nutrient restriction (LR), maintenance at ideal adiposity (BCS = 6) after overfeeding (IMO), maintenance at ideal adiposity after nutrient restriction (IMR), maintenance at an over-fed BCS (BCS = 8; MO), and maintenance at a restricted BCS (BCS = 4; MR). Body weight (BW) and BCS were recorded every 2 wk to monitor bull weight and BCS changes. Scrotal circumference was measured every 28 d. Body fat and sperm motility and morphology were evaluated every 84 d. Scrotal circumference, motility, and morphology were normalized to the initial value of each bull. Thus, allowing the individual bull to serve as a control. Statistical analyses were conducted with PROC GLIMMIX of SAS as a complete randomized design to determine if treatment influenced BW, BCS, scrotal circumference, motility, morphology, and adipose thickness. Scrotal circumference (P < 0.001) had the least amount of deviation from initial during the LR (0.29 ± 0.44) treatment and the greatest during the MO (3.06 ± 0.44), LO (2.28 ± 0.44), MR (2.43 ± 0.44), GR (3.03 ± 0.44), and IMR (2.91 ± 0.44) treatments. Sperm motility was not affected by nutritional treatments (P = 0.55). Both head and total defects of sperm differed (P = 0.02) due to nutritional treatments. Increased head abnormalities occurred during the LO (37.60 ± 8.61) treatment, with no differences between the other treatments. Total defects increased during the LO (43.80 ± 9.55) treatment with similar increases in bulls during the GR (29.40 ± 9.55) and IMR (35.60 ± 9.55) treatments. In conclusion, male fertility was impacted when a deviation from a BCS of 6 occurred which could be detrimental to reproductive and beef production efficiency.