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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.

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Survey launched to investigate EHV

News Story 1
 Zoetis has launched a new survey to identify management techniques for Equine Herpes Virus (EHV).

EHV is a contagious, airborne virus that can cause respiratory problems and severe diseases in horses and ponies. It spreads among horses over short distances, direct contact and through shared equipment.

The survey will explore current knowledge and management practices with EHV in the UK. It is quick to complete and participants could win one of 10 equine first aid kits.

Complete the survey here. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
WSAVA launches pet travel guidance factsheet

A new pet travel guidance factsheet for veterinary professionals and caregivers has been developed by the WSAVA in collaboration with the World Veterinary Association.

The Dog and Cat Welfare During Transport factsheet provides step-by-step guidance for all stages of a journey, from pre-travel checklists to post-travel care.

Brachycephalic breeds or animals prone to travel-related anxiety are given special focus in this guide, which also provides links to IATA container regulation and WSAVA vaccination guidelines.