In the dairy industry, cow fertility plays a critical role beyond basic herd management.
Murray Dairy’s extension coordinator Ross Read says there are significant hidden costs of poor cow fertility.
Many farmers focus on feed quality, herd health, and operational aspects, but poor cow fertility can quietly chip away at profitability and productivity.
According to Ross, understanding the financial impact of fertility issues is essential for farmers to make informed decisions and take corrective measures to protect their business.
Ross said poor fertility can manifest through longer calving intervals, higher rates of non-pregnancy, and increased instances of repeat breeding.
Factors such as nutritional imbalances, environmental stress, reproductive diseases, and inadequate herd management practices can all contribute to poor reproduction.
He highlights several direct costs that arise from poor fertility, including:
- Extended calving intervals: Cows take longer to return to the milking herd, with each additional day a cow remains open representing a missed opportunity for milk production, ultimately lowering herd efficiency.
- Breeding costs: Veterinary fees for treating reproductive disorders, synchronisation programs, and repeated inseminations are all expenses that burden the business.
To reduce these costs, Ross suggests key strategies that farm businesses can adopt, such as regular reproductive health monitoring and diagnostics to identify and address fertility issues early.
Whether through advanced technology or veterinary intervention, early detection is crucial.
He also stresses the importance of accurate data.
“Good data gives farmers insight into factors like age, days open to first service, submission rates, conception rates, and six-week in-calf rates.”
This information is invaluable in optimising breeding practices and improving overall herd fertility.