Managing the effects of stress and temperament on beef cattle reproduction
Abstract
"Temperament or disposition of cattle is associated with a number of production traits. Animals exhibiting more excitable temperaments have reduced dry matter intake, achieve lower average daily gains, and produce lower quality carcasses (King et al., 2006). Commercial producers can improve temperament in their herds through selection for docility and through culling of flighty, aggressive animals. However, making progress toward a more docile cow herd takes time, and even docile cattle can become stressed in response to management. Animal stress can negatively impact reproductive performance in particular, so mitigating temperament-associated stress is essential both prior to and during the breeding season. Reduced pregnancy rates and increased pregnancy loss have been demonstrated by cows with excitable temperaments across various management systems and cattle types (Cooke et al., 2012). Several simple management strategies are available to mitigate temperament associated stress. Producers should evaluate their herd, facilities, and overall management to determine how implementation of the following practices might improve reproductive outcomes."--First page.
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