Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
EmailIphone Application    Posted: 2nd March 2021
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.
Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Metabolic testing could improve fertility in beef herds – study
Researchers found that a third of cows were deficient in magnesium pre-calving.

Researchers assess nutrition status in suckler cows before and after calving.

Researchers at Scotland's Rural College (SRUC) have found that metabolic profile testing could improve calving performance in beef cattle

Metabolic profile (MP) testing is commonly used in dairy herds to investigate the nutritional status of pre-calving and early lactation cows, but its uptake among beef producers has been slow.

In the study, researchers found the MP testing can highlight nutritional issues in beef cattle that could affect calving performance, milk production and fertility. They also found the tool can help to identify management issues, such as inadequate feed space.

The study was led by SAC Consulting, part of SRUC, over 12 months at farms in Angus and Fife. Researchers tested 180 cows around one month before and calving to assess nutritional status. The cows were also given a body condition score.

They found that a third of cows were deficient in magnesium pre-calving - a significant finding, given that low magnesium levels can impact slow calving and, potentially, the health of the calf. The team also found that a quarter of cows were deficient in magnesium post-calving - an issue that can increase the risk of grass staggers disease.

“Another finding was that over half the cows were short of rumen-available protein in the ration pre-calving which, if left uncorrected, may impact colostrum quality and milk production,” explained SAC consulting nutritionist Karen Stewart.

“The study also highlighted energy deficiencies and, with corrective action, helped to safeguard calving performance and getting cows back in calf. In some cases, the ration looked ideal on paper and was based on silage analysis, but feed access issues, weather and other environmental factors negatively affected the animal’s nutritional status."

She added that trace elements and other major minerals, except magnesium, were not deficient, and cows were generally well supplemented.

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.