Impact of temporal variations and risk factors associated with udder inflammation in Hardhenu cattle (Bos taurus × Bos indicus)

Abstract

This study aimed to explore the occurrence and risk factors associated with clinical mastitis within the Hardhenu cattle herd over a span of 14 years (2008–2021). A comprehensive analysis of 1515 lactation records was conducted to ascertain the incidence of clinical mastitis. The investigation determined an overall incidence rate of 26.80% in the studied population. A significant relationship between the year and clinical mastitis incidence was established through Chi‐square analysis (p < .05). Temporal variations in clinical mastitis odds were apparent, with the highest odds (ranging from 0.91 to 1.00) observed during the initial years of 2008–2009 and 2009–2010. Logistic regression revealed that odds values for clinical mastitis incidence were highest in 2008–2009 (1.00), succeeded by 2009–2010 (0.91), 2012–2013 (0.88), 2018–2019 (0.67) and reaching the lowest in 2021–2022 (0.35). Subsequent rankings included 2010–2011 (0.39), 2014–2015 (0.43) and 2019–2020 (0.45). Parity was found to be significantly associated with clinical mastitis occurrence. When compared to Parity 3, both Parity 1 (odds ratio: 1.516, 95% confidence interval: 0.881–2.612) and Parity 2 (odds ratio: 2.626, 95% confidence interval: 1.568–4.398) exhibited higher odds values for clinical mastitis incidence. While the period of calving did not exert a significant influence on clinical mastitis incidence, a heightened occurrence was observed during the rainy season within the targeted population. These findings offer valuable insights into the patterns of incidence, temporal fluctuations, and non‐genetic determinants impacting clinical mastitis within the Hardhenu cattle. The implications of this study can facilitate the development of targeted strategies and management protocols aimed at enhancing udder health and overall productivity in dairy cattle.

Evaluation of parity and its interaction effect with season of calving, period of calving on production and reproduction traits in Hardhenu (Bos taurus × Bos indicus) dairy cattle

“…Milk production and reproduction traits are of paramount economic importance for dairy farmers, with high milk yield (MY) and reproductive efficiency being key drivers of profitability (Chanie & Lamesegn, 2018; Pushpa, Magotra, Bangar, et al., 2023; Pushpa, Magotra, Kamaldeep, & Chaudhary, 2023; Pushpa, Magotra, Patil, et al., 2023). These traits are influenced by a myriad of factors, which can be broadly categorized into genetic and environmental components.…”

“…However, reproductive traits typically exhibit low heritability (Pushpa, Magotra, Kamaldeep, & Chaudhary, 2023), implying that environmental factors, including management conditions, exert a significant influence on their variation (Belay, 2016). Factors like inadequate nutrition, disease prevalence, improper management, genetic defects, and suboptimal breeding practices can lead to extended CIs, delayed age at first calving (AFC), lengthy CIs, short lactation periods, and reduced milk production, collectively impacting the productive and reproductive performance of cattle (Belay, 2016; Duguma et al., 2012; Prasanna et al., 2023).…”

“…Recognizing the critical role of reproductive traits, there has been a substantial surge in interest in breeding programs aimed at improving reproductive performance. However, the complexity of female sex‐limited traits, with expressions restricted to cows, and the low heritability of such traits have posed challenges for traditional selection methods (Pushpa, Magotra, Kamaldeep, & Chaudhary, 2023).…”