Effect of Restricted Suckling on Shortened Lactation Length and Performance of Sahiwal Cattle

Abstract

Background: Sahiwal cattle write is more prone to lactation failure and short lactation. The present study was conducted to study effects of restricted suckling on productive (with special reference to lactation length) and reproductive performance of Sahiwal cows, who had short lactation length. Methods: A total of 24 multiparous Sahiwal cows of 2nd-4th parity were selected based on their previous history of short lactation length (70-190 days). Cows were randomly divided into 3 weaning groups i.e. zero day weaning group (G1, n=8), restricted suckling up to 90 days (G2, n=6) and restricted suckling up to 150 days (G3, n=6). Recording of peak yield (PY), lactation milk yield (LMY) and lactation length (LL), udder morphometry, somatic cell count (SCC), milking behaviour and reproduction parameters was done. Blood plasma levels of prolactin (ng/ml), growth hormone (mg/ml) and cortisol (ng/ml), were also studied. Result: Lactation MY (kg) was found highest in G2 followed by G3 and G1. Lactation length was found significantly (p≤0.05) longer in group-3. Temperament scoring, days to first heat and service period of cows found significantly higher in RS groups. Overall improvement in lactation length was 38.27% in G2 and 37.28% in G3 as compared to their previous LL. So, the study indicated that the restricted suckling method seems to be more efficient compared to an immediate calf separation since this avoided the cow becoming dry prematurely, improved milk yield, lactation length and growth rate of calves.