Farm characteristics and management routines related to cow longevity: a survey among Swedish dairy farmers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Longevity is an important trait for increasing the profitability of dairy production. Long cow longevity is also essential to reduce the environmental impact of milk production, and to maintain positive consumer attitude. Genetic selection for increased longevity has been effective, but the phenotypic trend of longevity in Swedish dairy cows has not been improved. The objective of this study was to identify herd characteristics and management routines that are associated with the average cow longevity in a herd. To obtain this information, a questionnaire was developed and sent out to 661 Swedish dairy farmers.

Results

The response rate was 35%. Seventeen of the 62 characteristics investigated had either a univariable association with the outcome (days from birth

SUBMITTER: Alvasen K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6006783 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature