DAIRY CATTLE PRODUCTION BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN AGRICULTURE.pptx

ANIMAL SCIENCE

1. DAIRY CATTLE PRODUCTION Lagunday , Kieth Angelie Fuentes, Pevy Mae Gastar , Cyprian

2. (Also called dairy cows) are cattle for the ability to produce large quantities of milk, from which dairy products are made. Dairy cattle generally are of the species Bos taurus . Dairy Cattle

3. Holstein This breed is the most common of the dairy breeds. Holstein have the black-and-white markings typically associated with the dairy cows. Holsteins also have better milk production than other dairy breeds. Breeds of Dairy Cattle

4. Advantages:  They are known for their excellent milk production, with some cows producing up to 26,000 liters of milk throughout their life. Holstein cows can survive in different extreme climatic conditions and have a longer lifespan than other cattle breeds. However, they have poor heat tolerance and are not as tolerant of heat, which can impact both their milk production and their fertility. Holstein cows have a fast calving rate and the rate of maturity is also considerable. The male calves produce beef which is beneficial for the market and farmers. Disadvantages:  The main disadvantage is the low butterfat content in their milk. These cows can produce a huge amount of milk, but the butterfat content is very low, so it is not much beneficial. Holstein cows have poor heat tolerance and are not as tolerant of heat, which can impact both their milk production and their fertility. Holstein bulls tend to be aggressive and thus difficult to manage.

5. Jersey The Jersey is the smallest of the dairy breeds and her color ranges from white to dark brown. The most heat-tolerant of the dairy breeds, she produces milk with a very high butterfat content (perfect for an ice cream).

6. Advantages: higher feed conversion efficiency than other breeds, which means they require less feed to produce the same amount of milk.  known for their superior grazing ability lighter in weight than other breeds, making them easier to manage. suitable for high input high output systems or low cost grass-based systems contribute to an easy care herd and require less supervision at calving time Jersey cows have a shorter calving interval greater feed efficiency than other breeds  Disadvantages: Higher incidence of milk fever Produce less quantity of milk Small udder Dairy process difficulty Lower growth Prone to diseases such milk fever, ketosis, udder infections, etc.

7. Brown Swiss The Brown Swiss is considered the oldest of the dairy breeds. Brown Swiss can vary in color, from silver to dark brown, and are large with large ears. Their milk is ideal for making cheese because of its high protein-to-fat ratio.

8. Advantages: Robust a prolific breeder long lived, strong, adaptable, and very well-balanced in build with good hooves and limbs. Good for milk production, excellent health with strong udders. Disadvantages: Calves are harder to start on buckets Take longer to mature Low fertility and production rate

9. Guernsey Guernsey cows can range from fawn to golden in color and often has white legs and white areas on her body.

10. Advantages: Efficiency and adaptability, ease of calving the popular breed for crossing early maturity and fertility, longevity, temperament, high components the cheese yield breed and excellent milk quality. Disadvantages: Prone lung problems to udder infections Aggressive attitude Poor hardiness Short teats

11. Ayrshire Known as “aristocrat” of the dairy breeds because of their size and vigor. They are rusty-red and white in color and adapt easily to their environment.

12. Advantages: Strong and easy to raise excellent milk production longevity of production efficient forage conversion excellent functional type, health, and freedom of disease and ailments economic and profitable milk production. Disadvantages: Strong personality which may be difficult for beginners to handle

13. Milking Shorthorn Milking Shorthorns are considered a dual-purpose breed that can be used for milk or beef production. Large in size, they are often white and roan in color and their milk is known for its high protein-to-fat ratio.

14. Advantages: well suited to all climates easy to milk and the calving process is easy. aggressive but have strong libido Disease resistance, structural soundness, long production life and feed efficiency Most versatile of all breeds. Disadvantages: Have some genetic issues ( Tibial Hemimelia (TH), Myostatin (MYO) )

15. Red and White Knowing that Red and White dairy cattle generally carry strong Holsteins genetics, their origin and history are that of their black and white relatives, except their spots are red.

16. Advantages: Better heat tolerance Stronger immune system Have more resistance to mastitis Disadvantages: Grower fewer in number

17. Illawarra Shorthorn (Australia) Illawarra cattle can be rich red colour with a bit of white on the flanks or roan, other colours such as broken colours or black and brindle are not allowed. The breed has strong dark hooves and dark pigmentation which helps protect from skin cancers and sunburnt teats. They are medium sized animal with a confirmation that increase in depth towards the hindquarters with a sharp, clean outline.

18. Advantages: high butterfat and protein milk production  large-framed, horned, and predominantly red in color, with some whites or roans (mix of red and white) very docile and noted for their longevity Adaptable to a variety of condition Produce large quantities of milk many in excess of 40 litres /day Very adaptable to climatic conditions Calving ease with superior pelvic formation Longevity, can keep producing till their early teens Strong pigmentation, less skin cancers Good temperament

19. Fleckvieh (Central Europe) Fleckvieh cattle are medium to large animals with red pied or solid red colour. They can be either horned or polled. Average height of the mature bulls is about 150-165 cm at the withers, and about 140-150 cm for the bulls. Average live body weight of the mature cows vary from 700 to 800 kg. and live body weight of the mature bulls is between 1100 and 1300 kg.

20. Advantages: Fleckvieh dairy cows produce high-quality milk with fat levels on the high end of the industry standard norm in the 4.2 percent range. Also, milk protein levels are in the 3.5% to 3.8% range. Fleckvieh are well adapted to all kinds of climate, including colder climates like Canada and the USA, or mountain ranges of Germany. They have a better circulation because of their thick skin and can dissipate heat better into the ambient environment. Conversely, during cold winter days, the thick skin helps to insulate the animals. Fleckvieh bulls are also reliable sources of draught power. Their gentle disposition is an added advantage making them easier to herd. Management of this particular cattle breed is relatively lower due to their innate resistance to some tropical diseases such as East Coast Fever and udder infections (mastitis). Disadvantages: Milk volume tends to be 1 – 3 % less than the traditional Holstein herds.The size of Fleckvieh works well on a mountain and it also works well in a modern milk parlor and even robotic milking machines. However, their frames are such that they can support a lot of muscle mass and have feet and legs that are strong. This strength can be a disadvantage when they are put to work in a modern dairy farm.

21. Lineback (New England) The Lineback has a very beautiful coat, it is generally black on the sides with a white line down the back and along the belly as the name suggests. They can also come in roan or white with red or black speckles on their sides. Two named patterns are the Witrick pattern where the cattle have speckled or dark sides, a black nose, eyes and ears.

22. Advantages: Lineback cattle are known for having good feet and legs, as well as great mammary systems. They’re also known for their durability and longevity. They produce high-quality milk that is ideal for cheese and butter production. Lineback bulls are also reliable sources of draught power. Their gentle disposition is an added advantage making them easier to herd. Disadvantages: You may run into calving difficulties depending on the cow’s bloodline. Lineback cattle tend to have lower milk yields than other breeds, such as Holsteins.

23. Sahiwal (Punjab Region in Indian-Pakistani border) Their colour can range from reddish brown through to the more predominant red, with varying amounts of white on the neck, and the underline. In males the colour darkens towards the extremities, such as the head, legs and tail. It is tick-resistant, heat tolerant and noted for its high resistance to parasites, both internal and external. The Sahiwal is the heaviest milker of all Zebu breeds and display a well-developed udder.

24. Advantages:   They are known for their heat resilience high dairy production naturally resistant to tick bites, high temperatures, and parasitic infections. They are well adapted to all kinds of climate and can withstand extreme weather conditions. Their gentle disposition is an added advantage making them easier to herd. Disadvantages: The Sahiwal breed requires an extra amount of feed as compared to other imported breeds. They drink more than enough fresh and clean water so farmers must keep them in a wide area where they have water supply and feed available.

25. Normande (Normandy, France) The Normande is a red and white cow with occasional sometimes widespread areas of brown hair. Typically, the brown hair has the look of tiger stripes, or brindles, interspersed with the red spots, and there is some degree of balance between the three different hues. However, one colour often dominates, and there is a different name for the dominance of each colour.

26. Advantages: Normande cows produce high-quality milk with 3.5% butterfat per lactation, which is ideal for cheese and butter production. They have a higher percentage of muscle to bone mass, which translates into a higher yield of meat per carcass. Normande cattle are renowned for their vigor and fitness. They have a solid structure and few hereditary issues. Disadvantages: Normande cattle need plenty of exercises and a forage-based diet to remain healthy. They tend to have lower milk yields than other breeds, such as Holsteins.

27. American Milking Devon (Devonshire, England) The Milking Devon is red in colour, varying in shade from deep rich red to light red or chestnut colour. They may show white on the tail switch, udder or scrotum. They are of a medium size, mature cows will weigh about 1,000-1,200 pounds at maturity and bulls may weigh 1,400-1,700 pounds at maturity. They have medium sized curving horns that are light coloured with dark tips.

28. Advantages:   They are very intelligent animals and comparatively strong compared to their body size, which makes them excellent for using as oxen. They are very low maintenance, requiring minimal shelter, although shelter is advised to protect your cows from the elements. They produce high-quality milk that is similar in quality to that of the Jersey but without the need for grain supplementation, and many are very productive milkers for the family farm. Disadvantages: You may run into calving difficulties depending on the cow’s bloodline. American Milking Devon cattle tend to have lower milk yields than other breeds, such as Holstein.

29. Norwegian Red (Norway) Norwegian Red cattle do not express the external uniformity seen in a true breed, although they are red or red-pied for the most part. Cows weigh about 495kg to 600kg bulls about 900kg. They produce approximately 6200 litres of milk a year. They are of a medium size and give a average yield, average milk-fat and average meat, they are specifically bred for these traits.

30. Advantages: They are known for their longevity, disease-resistance power, and adaptability to different environments. The average milk yield is up to 6000 kg per lactation They are adaptable to different environments, have excellent milk production, and are easy to breed. Disadvantages: Norwegian Red cattle tend to have lower milk yields than other breeds, such as Holsteins. The cows do not express the external uniformity seen in true breed, although they are red or red-pied for the most part.

31. Lakenvelder /Dutch Belted (Netherlands) The name Lakenvelder or Lakenfield cattle derives from the word “ Laken ” meaning a sheet or clot, referring to the white band passing around the body. In some countries animals with this marking are known as “sheeted” cattle. This belt or sheet is of pure white hair extending from the shoulders to the hip bones and should encircle the body completely.The cattle are otherwise black (or occasionally red).

32. Advantages: Lakenvelder cows are prolific milk producers and can produce milk that compares to the Holstein or Brown Swiss in terms of yield. They are small-boned, making them very easy calving. They have unusual longevity and fertility, high meat yield, and friendly dispositions. Lakenvelder cattle are great foragers and have greater efficiency on grass and forage than the average cattle breeds.  Disadvantages: The Dutch Belted bull is an excellent breeder—another reason it’s mostly used in crossbreeding—and the perfect beef cattle. You may run into calving difficulties depending on the cow’s bloodline.

33. Hereford (Herefordshire) The modern Hereford is coloured dark red to red-yellow, with a white face, crest, dewlap, and underline. Herefords with white flanks and white markings below the knees and hocks are also common. Most animals have short thick horns that typically curve down at the sides of the head, but there is a polled stain in North America and UK (Polled Herford).

34. Advantages:  They are also popular for their maternal qualities and low-fat content longer lifespan and excellent mothering abilities. They get mature at a very early stage of life, and the calving rate is high compared to normal breeds. The temperament of these breeds is calm and pleasant Disadvantages: Hereford cattle cannot bear extreme environments, and sudden climatic changes are not suitable for them . Calving process of Hereford cattle is easy but there are chances of vaginal prolapse . Vaginal prolapse can cause serious problems in cows. There are few genetic problems in Hereford cattle breed. These cattle may commonly develop eye cancer.  These cattle can easily get sunburn because the pale udders of this breed remain exposed to the environment and lead to sun damage.

35. American Brahman (United States) Brahmans vary in colour from very light grey or red to almost black. A majority of the breed are light to medium grey. Mature bulls are normally darker than cows and usually have dark areas on the neck, shoulders and lower thighs. They have short, thick, glossy hair which reflects much of the suns rays and black pigmented skin, making it able to graze in the midday sun without suffering. Their horns curve upwards and sometimes tilt to the rear plus they have pendulous ears.

36. Advantages: American Brahman cattle have exceptional adaptability and resilience, allowing them to thrive in hot and humid environments and reducing the risk of diseases and parasites. They have remarkable reproductive capabilities, reaching sexual maturity at a young age and having a longer reproductive lifespan compared to other breeds. American Brahman cattle offer economic benefits such as lower veterinary expenses, increased productivity, and sustainable grazing, providing a reliable and sustainable source of income. Disadvantages: American Brahman cattle tend to have slower growth rates than other breeds, such as Angus or Hereford. The meat quality of American Brahman cattle is often criticized for being less tender and having less marbling than other breeds. Behavioral issues like aggression and heat stress require proper management and care.

37. Aberdeen Angus (Scotland) Aberdeen Angus cattle are naturally polled and can be black or red in colour although black is the dominant colour, white may occasionally appear on the udder. They are resistant to harsh weather, undemanding, adaptable, good natured, mature extremely meat. Angus are renowned as a carcass breed. They are used widely in crossbreeding to improve carcass quality and milking ability.

38. Advantages: They can survive the Scottish winter, which is typically harsh with snowfall and storms. They usually mature fast and have a high carcass yield with nicely marbled meat. Aberdeen Angus cattle are a breed of cattle that are known for their hardiness, adaptability, and high-quality beef production.  Disadvantages: The meat quality of Aberdeen Angus cattle is often criticized for being less tender and having less marbling than other breeds. Aberdeen Angus cattle tend to have slower growth rates than other breeds, such as Hereford or Charolais  .

39. Limousin (France) The Limousin is large, fine and has a strong boned frame. Mature Limousin females should average 650 kilos and mature males 1000 kilos. The head is small and short with a broad forehead, and the neck is short with a broad muzzle. Coat colour is golden-red and a lighter colour under the stomach, inside the thighs, around the eyes and muzzle, and around the anus and end of the tail. The skin is free of pigmentation.

40. Advantages:  They are known for their high-quality meat production and can survive in extreme environments.  These cattle are continental breed which are found in more than 70 countries and can survive in every kind of environment. The process of calving is easy regardless of their heavy body These cattle have very strong immune systems, which makes them different from others Disadvantages: People cannot visit this breed without any security and protection. An attendant must be required while visiting these aggressive Limousin cattle.

41. Parthenais /e (France) The Parthenaise are reddish buckskin to a dark brown colour with a dark brown to black around the neck, eyes, ears and jaw. The face and muzzle are lighter. The nose, hooves and tail are black. Mature cows can weigh upto 900 kg and the bulls 1,250 kg, average birth weight for bulls is around 44 kg and heifers 41 kg.

42. Advantages: They have excellent disease-resistance capabilities. They are docile and easy to keep and breed, making them suitable for both small-scale and large-scale farming. Parthenais cattle have a high-quality meat yield with excellent beef. They are also used for draught work. Disadvantages: There is a limited supply of pedigreed Parthenais cattle, which can make them expensive to purchase. There is not much information available on the disadvantages of this breed .

43. Estonian Red (Estonia) The Estonian Red is medium in size with a strong frame. The coat colour is red and can range from light to dark, the bulls tend to be dark. The mature cows weigh 450 to 550 kg with a maximum of 780 kg and mature bulls weigh 800 to 900 kg again an approximate maximum of 1000 kg. Calves at birth weigh 31 to 33 kg.

44. Advantages: Population Dominance : The Estonian Red now accounts for  63.3%  of all cattle in Estonia, making it a popular choice. Competitiveness : It has been fully restored to compete with the Estonian Holstein breed. Adaptability : Well-suited to the local environment Disadvantages : have limitations related to specific traits or management practices .

45. Dexter (Southern Ireland) The Dexter breed is a small breed of cattle. It is dual-purpose breed, with the average weight of a cow being some 300-350 kg and standing 92cm-107cm at the shoulder. There are two recognized types, short legged and non-short, both of which have their equal merits. The breed comes in three colours, predominantly black, but also red and dun. Most are horned although a very few naturally polled animals are becoming available.

46. Advantages : Compact Size : Their manageable size makes them ideal for small farms or homesteads Fertility and Calving Ease : Dexters are fertile and generally have few calving difficulties. Their ease of calving is beneficial for both the cow and the farmer. Dual Purpose : Dexters serve as dual-purpose animals, providing both meat and milk. The cuts of beef from Dexters are smaller, making them more manageable for home consumption. Disadvantages: Sensitivity and Protection for Calves : One disadvantage is that Dexters can be extra sensitive when it comes to their calves. Health Issues : Health Issues : Some Dexters may suffer from a health condition called  Chondrodysplasia , which causes dwarfism

47. Galloway (Galloway region of Scotland) Galloway’s are mainly black with a brownish tinge, they are also bred in dun and black or dun belted, the latter being a recessive gene strain of red and white. They have a long, soft wavy coat which serves a dual purpose, the coarse outer coat sheds wind and rain, while the soft, fur-like under coat provides insulation and waterproofing. Galloway are hornless or polled although some writers say that formerly they were mixed, some being horned and others polled.

48. Advantages : Hardiness and Adaptability : Galloways are hardy and well-suited to harsh climates. Their thick, wavy coat provides excellent insulation against cold, damp winters . Efficient Feeders : Galloways are known for their efficient feed conversion. They can graze on rough plants and maintain good body condition. Their ability to gain weight even on limited rations is remarkable . Moderate Size and Docile Temperament : Galloways have a moderate size, making them manageable for small family farms Disadvantages : Over protectiveness Regarding Calves : While Galloway cows are great mothers, they can become overly protective of their calves. Farmers need to exercise caution when handling them to avoid unintentional harm . Calving Age : Galloways tend to start calving in their teens or twenties, which may be considered a disadvantage due to delayed breeding maturity.

49. Red Poll (Eastern England) Red Poll cattle are a deep red colour with good eye and udder pigmentation (avoids sunburn) and naturally polled. They are medium size (similar to all British breeds) with strong legs and good walking ability. Both cows and bulls are very docile and so are easy to handle, they are easy calving and because of their milking ability they produce a low weight, fast growing calf.

50. Advantages : Dual Purpose Breed : Red Polls serve as a dual-purpose breed, excelling in both  dairy production  and  meat production . Efficient Weight Gain : Red Polls gain weight rapidly without excessive growth in size . Excellent Mothers and Good Libidos : These cattle are known for their nurturing abilities as mothers . The bulls exhibit robust libidos, contributing to successful breeding. Disadvantages: Climate Sensitivity : One notable disadvantage is their lack of extreme climate resistance. In England, where they are held in high esteem, the temperate climate suits them well. Calf Production Gap : Red Polls have a relatively long calving interval, producing calves on an annual basis. This gap may lead to fewer overall calf births compared to some other breeds .

51. English Longhorn (United Kingdom) English Longhorns are large lean beef cattle with an impressive sweep of horns that curve down to around the nose. These impressive horns are valued in the pedigree. The body may be any one of a wide range of brindle colours but they all have the characteristics white line or “ finching ” along the back and down the tail, which is passed onto their cross bred progeny.

52. Advantages : Impressive Horns : English Longhorns are large, lean beef cattle with an  impressive sweep of horns  that curve down toward their noses. Economical and Easy to Manage : They are excellent mothers, and their docile nature makes them easy to handle. Their breeding longevity and relatively low body weight make them  economical and inexpensive to feed . Disadvantages: Climate Sensitivity : While they thrive in temperate climates like England, they may not adapt well to extreme weather conditions. Consider the local climate when raising them. Limited Commercial Milk Production : Although English Longhorns have a milk fat content of around 6%, they are not commonly milked commercially. Their primary focus is on beef production.

53. Nelore (India) The Nelore is of the Bos indicus species and has the characteristics hump above its shoulders and loose skin. It is usually white in colour with a black skin, muzzle and tail, and they have comparatively long legs which helped them walk in water when grazing. Nelore have the shortest ears of most Bos indicus types. The Nelore are horned, these are thick brown horns that point up but there is a naturally polled strain of the breed too.

54. Advantages : Heat Resistance and Adaptability :Nelore cattle thrive in hot and tropical climates. They are also resistant to various parasites and diseases. Efficient Feed Conversion : Nelores have a slow metabolism, which means they feed less often. Their high resistance to bloat is advantageous for efficient feed utilization Disadvantages: Cold Sensitivity : While they excel in heat, Nelores do not fare well in very cold climates . Calving Interval : Nelores may have a relatively long calving interval .

55. Tarentaise (France) The Tarentaise coat is a tan colour with darkening around the eyes and sometimes on the neck of the bulls, they also have a black nose, udder and hooves. They are of a medium build and well muscled. A Tarentaise cow is universally recognized for her moderate size, early maturity, large volume of milk and ease of calving. The dark pigmentation of the eyes, feet and udders guard against pinkeye, cancer eye and sunburn.

56. Advantages : Dual-Purpose : Tarentaise cattle are dual-purpose animals, excelling in both  milk production  and  meat production . High-Quality Milk : Their milk has good butterfat content, making it suitable for cheese making. Adaptability : Tarentaise can survive in high altitudes and rough, steep lands. Longevity : They have a longer lifespan compared to other breeds . Low Maintenance : Requirements for their maintenance are not excessive . Disadvantages: Marketing Importance : Tarentaise cattle do not have significant marketing importance due to their historical isolation from other breeds. Location Preference : Farmers with flat pastures may not prefer them, as Tarentaise originated in mountainous regions

57. Girolando (Brazil) The Girolando takes its looks from the Holstein and the Gir , it can be black and white in colour but it can vary depending on the percentage of each in the cross. Their ears are large like Gir .

58. Advantages : Milk Production : Girolandos are well-known for their  milk production . Adaptability and Resistance : Girolandos share genes with the Gir breed, resulting in excellent resistance, adaptability, and longevity. They thrive in hot climates, making them suitable for tropical regions. Efficient Calving and High Fertility : Girolando cows hardly face calving issues.They have a high number of calves per cow, contributing to overall productivity. Disadvantages: Cold Sensitivity : While they excel in heat tolerance, Girolandos may not fare well in very cold climates. Market Rarity : The Girolando breed is still considered  vulnerable , and its marketing importance varies.

59. Meuse Rhine Issel (Netherlands) Meuse Rhine Issel are medium sized breed with a solid build, they are red and white in colour with good length and depth to the body. They are an adaptable hardy breed and have good disease resistance, they perform well on rough pasture. They are very docile in temperament, the cows have a relatively short gestation period and calve easily.

60. Advantages : Adaptability : MRI cattle are hardy and adaptable. They thrive in the moderate and maritime climate of the Netherlands. Docile Temperament : These cows have a calm disposition. High-Quality Milk : MRI cows produce milk that is rich in overall quality, including the essential Kappa Casein-B protein needed for cheesemaking . Disadvantages : Cold Sensitivity : While they adapt well to moderate climates, extremely cold conditions may pose challenges . Market Importance : MRI cattle are not as widely recognized as some other breeds.

61. Montbeliarde (France) The Montbeliarde is light red and white in colour quite similar to the red and white Holstein. They have a white head with a light muzzle and have lyra -shaped horns. Montbeliarde cows stand 135-140 cm at the withers and average 685 kg, while bulls stand 148 cm, weighing 1,100-1,200 kg. The breed is renowned for tough feet and strong udders.

62. Advantages: Disadvantages:

63. Pie Rouge des Plaines (France) Pie Rouge des Plaines cattle are medium to large sized animals. As the name suggests, these animals are usually red-pied in coloration. They have pale skin and short low horns. Average height of the bulls is about 15o cm at the withers, and about 138 cm for the cows. The bulls on average weight about 1000 kg. And average body weight of the cows is about 700 kg.

64. Advantages: Disadvantages:

65. Red Sindhi (India/Pakistan) The Red Sindhi cattle are medium sized animals, and they are very beautiful in appearance. They range in colour from a deep reddish brown to a yellowish red, but most commonly deep red. The bulls are generally of a darker colour that the cows.

66. Advantages: Disadvantages:

67. Jamaica Hope (Hope farm in Jamaica) The Jamaica Hope cattle are medium sized animals. They are multi- colored animals, and they can be either horned or polled. Average live body weight of the mature cows is about 500 kg. And live body weight of the mature bulls vary from 700 to 800 kg.

68. Advantages: Disadvantages:

69. Australian Milking Zebu (Australia) Quality of milk is very high and protein level is approximately 3.5 to 4 percent. The AMZ carries the colour markings and general shape of the Jersey, but also shows the tropical influence of the Sahiwal and Red Sindhi breeds through the ability to sweat and discard ticks from a highly mobile, loose skin.

70. Advantages: Disadvantages:

71. Danish Jersey (Denmark) Danish Jersey are smaller in stature than other dairy breeds (115-120cm tall). They are fawn in colour with white markings not being uncommon. Coat colours will vary from lighter to dark brown, almost black. Darker brown can be found on their extremities (nose, feet, ears and tail).

72. Advantages: Disadvantages:

73. Shorthorn (North East of England) The breed was developed as dual-purpose, suitable for both dairy and beef production; however, certain blood lines within the breed always emphasised one quality or the other. Over time, these different lines diverged, and by the second half of the twentieth century, two separate breeds had developed – the Beef Shorthorn, and the Milking Shorthorn. All Shorthorn cattle are coloured red, white or roan, although roan cattle are preferred by some, and completely white animals are not common.

74. Advantages: Disadvantages:

75. Swedish Red and White (Sweden) It is red with small white markings. The breed originated Red Pied Swedish and Swedish Ayrshire. The cows weigh around 550 kg, and they give about 7500 kg milk in one year. The SRB is a resilient breed of cattle and they are also used for meat production.

76. Advantages: Disadvantages:

77. Beef Shorthorn (England) Beef Shorthorn come in three colours, red, white and roan. Red cattle may be solid red or have white markings and they can be horned or polled. They are bigger than their dairy counterparts and are grown specifically fir their beef.

78. Advantages: Disadvantages:

79. General Appearance Feminity - Feminity is desired in the dairy cow. A feminine cow will be sharp and clean fronted, with a lean neck and long, smooth muscling. Feminity in the cow is related to dairy character. Selecting a Dairy Cattle Breed

80. Balance – With a smooth blending of body parts, the cow will appear symmetrical and balanced. If the cow is well balanced, her body parts will blend smoothly, giving a more attractive appearance. Size – The dairy cows should be an appropriate size for the breed. No matter what breed, the cow should show stature and quality of appearance and upstandingness and stretch.

81. Head ● broad muzzle with large, open nostrils ● jaws meet properly without overlap ● strong lower jaw ● broad forehead Shoulder ● set smoothly against the chest wall and withers Blades ● forming neat junction with the body 1.Frame/Capacity

82. Chest ● wide floor, resulting in ample width between the legs

83. Heart Girth ● large and deep ● full at the elbows with well sprung fore ribs ● fore ribs blend smoothly into the shoulders Crops ● well filled Back ● strong and straight ● vertebrae are well defined Loin ● broad and slightly arched ● vertebrae are well defined ● attachment to hip bones is high and wide

84. Mid-section ● long ribs highly and widely sprung ● depth of ribs tending to increase towards the rear

85. 2.Rump “Long, wide and clean cut, blending desirably with the loin.” Hook Bones ● wide, but not prominent ● slightly higher than the pins Pin Bones ● wide apart and free from patchiness ● slightly lower set than hooks Thurls ● high and wide apart ● give consideration to the stage of lactation

86. Tailhead ● refined ● carrying out level with the backline ● set slightly than the pins Tail ● long and slender

87. Pelvic Angle ● moderately sloped with pins set slightly lower than the hooks

88. 3.Feet and Legs Feet ● short and well rounded, with deep heel ● toes slightly spaced ● correct angle, durable Legs ● Pasterns - strong - of medium length - flexible

89. ● Fore legs - straight and wide apart - feet squarely placed ● Hind legs - side-nearly perpendicular from hock to pastern - rear-straight and wide apart - hocks cleanly molded

90. ● Bone - flat, strong and flinty - tendons well defined 4.The Mammary System ● Udder - It should be symmetrical and well balanced with evenness of all four quarters.

91. - The udder should be of intermediate depth. The udder should never hang below the hocks of a cow of any age. It should be slightly quartered on the sides.

92. ● Median Suspensory Ligament - It is the strong supportive ligament which runs lengthwise through the center of the udder. It should be strong but not overly tight, giving a definite cleavage or crease between the halves of the udder.

93. ● Udder texture - Should always be soft, pliable and elastic. After milking, the udder should be well collapsed. ● Fore Udder - Composed of the front parts of the udder. Moderately long, firm and smooth attachment of the fore udder to the body wall.

94. ● Rear Udder - Composed of the hind parts of the udder. Most important here is the high, wide and firm attachment of the rear udder. ● Teats - There should be four fully functional Teats of uniform size and medium length and diameter. It should be cylindrical and plumb and should hang perpendicular to the floor of the udder.

95. ● Mammary Veins - Should be long, tortuous and branching. Prominent udder veining, although it is attractive, is not associated with higher milking ability. 5.Dairy Character

96. ● Head - clean cut and feminine - eyes large and bright - ears carried alertly - resulting in a head with character appropriate for the breed. Ideal dairy head – with smooth blending of head, neck and shoulders.

97. ● Neck - long, lean and clean - blending smoothly into the shoulder - clean about the throat, dewlap and brisket - refined and feminine ● Strength - large enough body capacity to consume necessary feed to meet nutritional requirements.

98. ● Withers - sharp, clean and free from excess flesh - well defined, prominent and wedge shaped - dorsal process of vertebrae rise sharply above shoulder blades ● Ribs - wide spaced, exhibiting openness and sweep - rib bones are wide, flat and long

99. ● Flanks - deep through rib and flank - good spring of rib ● Thighs - generally clean, incurving and refined - side view-incurving to flat - rear view-wide apart, but not fleshy - provide ample room for the udder and its rear attachment ● Skin - loose and piable - hair fine ● Udde r - soft and pliable in texture - free from excess tissue or edema (hardness or swelling in the udder)

100. Good dairy farming practices 1.Animal Health - Animals that produce milk need to be healthy and an effective health care programme should be in place. - Establish the herd with resistance to disease - Prevent entry of disease onto the farm - Have an effective herd health management programme in place - Use all chemicals and veterinary medicines as directed Dairy Cattle Production Guide

101. 2.Milking Hygiene – Milk should be harvested and stored under hygienic conditions. Equipment used to harvest and store milk should be suitable and well maintained. - Ensure milking routines do not injure the animals or introduce contaminants into milk - Ensure milking is carried out under hygienic conditions - Ensure milk is handled properly after milking 3.Nutrition (feed and water) - Animals need to be fed and watered with products of suitable quality and safety. - Secure feed and water supplies from sustainable sources - Ensure animal feed and water are of suitable quantity and quality

102. - Control storage conditions of feed - Ensure the traceability of feedstuffs brought on to the farm 4.Animal Welfare - Animals should be kept according to the following “five freedoms”. 1.Freedom from thirst, hunger and malnutrition 2.Freedom from discomfort 3.Freedom from pain, injury and disease 4.Freedom from fear 5.Freedom to engage in relatively normal patterns of animal behaviour - Ensure animals are free from thirst, hunger and malnutrition - Ensure animals are free from discomfort

103. - Ensure animals are free from pain, injury and disease - Ensure animals are free from fear - Ensure animals can engage in relatively normal patterns of animal behaviour 5.Environment - Milk production should be managed in balance with the local environment surrounding the farm. - Implement an environmentally sustainable farming system - Have an appropriate waste management system - Ensure dairy farming practices do not have an adverse impact on the local environment

104. 6.Socio-Economic Management – Dairy farming provides economic and social benefits to farmers and their communities. Good dairy farming practice can also help to manage the social and economic risks to the enterprise. - Implement effective and responsible management of human resources - Ensure farm tasks are carried out safely and competently - Manage the enterprise to ensure its financial viability

105. What is Heat in Cows? The heat period in cows or heifers refers to the time when they are ready to conceive or become pregnant through insemination or mating with a bull. Typically, this period occurs every 18 to 24 days, with an average of 21 days for non-pregnant cows. The duration of the heat period average around 15 hours but can range from 2 to 30 hours. Here are some common signs of heat in cows: - Mucus discharge from the vulva or on the tail. - Swelling (inflammation) of the vulva and a change in colour from pink to red. Estrous Cycle

106. - Mounting other cows or allowing other cows to mount them. - Reduction in milk production in lactating cows. - Loss of appetite for a period of time. - Slight rise in body temperature. - Frequent urination. - Excitement and nervousness, causing the cow to run from place to place while bellowing. - Standing closer to bulls in order to be mounted.

107. Gestation length ranges from 279 to 287 days. For most breeds, 283 days would be common. Cows carrying bull calves tend to have a slightly longer gestation compared to cows carrying heifer calves. Signs of Pregnancy in Cattle: - The cow will not go into heat 21 days after mating. - Enlargement or protrusion of the abdomen at five months. - The udder becomes filled with milk. - The cervix seals. - A veterinary officer can detect the corpus luteum in the ovary by inserting his hands into the rectum. Gestation Period

108. Breeding is defined as the crossing of the male and the female parents to get off spring for the characters desired. The main breeding methods are: 1. In Breeding 2. Out Breeding They are further classified as given in the chart below: Breeding System

109. 1. Inbreeding Inbreeding is the mating of closely related individuals, whose relationship is more than the average relationship of the population. A. Close inbreeding : In this type of inbreeding, mating is made between very closely related individuals, such as full brothers are crossed with full sisters, or off springs are crossed with parents. B. Line breeding It is repeated back crossing to one outstanding ancestor, so that its contribution to the progeny is more. In this type of breeding, matings are made to concentrate the inheritance of desired characters of some favoured individuals. A. It brings about the uniformity of the required type. B. The dangers involves in case in breeding can be reduced.

110. Advantages of Inbreeding : 1. Undesirable decessive genes may be discovered and eliminated by further testing in this line. 2. It increase homozygosity and decreases genetic variance. 3. Breaking down of population into different inbreed lines. Disadvantages of Inbreeding: 1. The progeny becomes more susceptible to diseases. 2. Breeding problems and reproductive failure usually increases. 3. It is difficult to find out the stage of breeding at which it should be discontinued, in order to avoid the bad effects of the system. 4. It depresses' vitality in early life than in later life. 5. A small breeder stands a good chance of gain by doing too much in breeding. 6. Inbreeding appears to have little value in dairy cattle breeding programmes , because of its numerous detrimental effects.

111. 2. Out breeding -It is the opposite of inbreeding. Mating unrelated animals in known as out breeding. it is divided into six classes as dated below: A. Pure breeding B. Line crossing (crossing of inbreed lines) C. Out crossing D. Cross breeding E. Grading up F. Species hybridization

112. Pure breeding - It is mating of male and female belonging to the same breed. Pure breeding is a sort of out breeding. The examples of pure breeding are: • Ongole cow × Ongole bull • Jersey cow × Jersey bull • Murrah she buffalo × Murrah bull The outstanding advantage of pure breeding is for production of bulls for breeding purpose only pure breeding is to be followed in almost all the breeds except in case of inter-se-mating. It avoids mating of closely related individuals.

113. B. Line crossing - In this method of breeding closely inbred lines by intensive in breeding of more than five generations is done to develop in bred lines, from unrelated line for the male and for the female. The unrelated inbreed line male is matted to the in bred lines of the female and the offspring born out of such mating becomes a hybrid which exhibits heterodox or hybrid vigour .

114. C. Out crossing - It is mating of unrelated pure breed animals in the same breed. The animals do not have common ancestors on either side of their pedigree upto 4 to 6 generations and the offsprings of such a mating is known as the out cross. Advantage: It is an effective system for genetic improvement if carefully combined with selection. It is also pure breeding.

115. D. Cross breeding - It is mating of animals of different breeds. Cross breeding is followed for breeding animals for milk production and meat production. In India Zebu breeds of cow and nondescript cows are crossed with exotic breeds like Holstein Fresian , Brown Swiss and Jersey bulls in their semen to enhance the milk production potential of the progeny. Advantages of Cross Breeding : 1. The desirable characters of the exotic parent are transmitted to the progeny which the indigenous parent does not have. 2. It inherit the desirable characters of the parent like high milk yield early maturity, higher birth weigh of calves, better growth rates, better reproductive efficiency and indigenous parents characters like heat tolerance, disease resistance ability to thrive on scanty feeding and coarse fodder etc.

116. 3. In pairs the way to evolve new breeds with desirable characters. 4. Hybrid vigour is made use of in the progeny. 5. Result are seen more quickly in characters like milk yield in the cross bred progeny. Disadvantages of Cross Breeding: 1. The breeding merit of cross breed animals may be slightly reduced. 2. Cross breeding requires maintenance of two or more pure breeds in order to product the cross breeds.

117. F. Grading Up It is a practice of breeding in which the sires of the exotic breed are mated with the non-descript females and their offspring from generation to generation. After five or six generation of Grading up, a population resembling the exotic breed results. Advantages of Grading up: 1. After 5 to 6 generations grades resembling pure breed animals in matter of physical appearance and production can be obtained.

118. COMMON DISEASES IN DAIRY CATTLE

119. Is a tick-borne disease of cattle caused by protozoan parasites of the genus babesia , order Piroplasmida , phylum Acomplexa . Symptoms: clearly visible when the infection is active include: Weight loss Fast heartbeat High fever Disseminated intravascular coagulation 1.) Bovine Babesiosis (BB)

120. -caused by the anaerobic bacteria from clostridium genus. It usually found in the animal organism, even when it is healthy that might produce toxins which chain a series of symptoms that may caused death. Symptoms: Severe diarrhea /Stomach upset Abdominal pain Bloat Decreased appetite/ intestinal movement Abomasum distention Bubbles in the manure Hemorrhagic bowel syndrome (ABS) Stalled calves Blindness Sudden death ADR (“ ain’t doin ’ right) – general malaise, etc. 2. Clostridiosis (Clostridium welchi )

121. Is a vital diseases/ illness ( Picornaviridae aphthovirus virus) transmitted through drooling or blood coming from infected animals. It also can be transmitted through water by birds and by people that stay in contact with the herd. The virus is very resistant, remaining active in the pasture, leather or bone narrow after the animal dies. Symptoms: Lack of appetite Mouth, gum, and tongue thrush Fever Injured hooves (which causes locomotion difficulty to the animal) 3.) Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)

122. Is a bovine illness caused by Brucella abortus bacteria. It is also called malta fever or infectious abortion. The animal infectious may occur orally or during birth of infected animals. Symptoms: Abortion at the end of gestation Birth of dead or weak calves Brucellosis

123. is a chronic disease of animals caused by a bacteria called Mycobacterium bovis , (M. bovis ) which is closely related to the bacteria that cause human and avian tuberculosis. The main symptoms weight loss and coughing. The milk production might be considerably impaired when the animals are affected with tuberculosis. The bacteria responsible for spreading the disease is Mycobacterium bovis . Bovine tuberculosis (TB)

124. is an illness that affects the mammal glands of the animal. It can be caused, primarily, by Streptococcus and Staphylococcus bacteria and coliforms . Issues on how the milking is made and the lack of hygiene in the environment where the cow is located are the main facilitating factors for herd infection. Mamitis symptoms include: swollen, red-colored and hot udder and can be seen with naked eye. The milk can also be affected, getting out mymore watery or thick, with flakes or clots. the cow also presents lack of appetite and weight loss. The damages might be huge for the breeder, since the disease also causes a decrease of the milk production. can be seen with naked eye. Mastitis

125. one of the most significant parasitic diseases of livestock worldwide, which is a main cause of production losses and ill-health in ruminants. This disease is caused by Haemonchus contortus (H. contortus ), a nematode parasite of the ruminants' abomasa . Symptom: failure to thrive and weight loss Verminosis

126. is a contagious, chronic, and usually fatal infection that affects primarily the small intestine of ruminants. Johne's disease is caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (M. avium subsp. paratuberculosis ), a hardy bacterium related to the agents of leprosy and TB. Symptoms: weight loss and diarrhea with a normal appetite. Johne's disease

127. Is a viral disease that affects cattle. It is transmitted by blood-feeding insects, such as certain species. of flies and mosquitoes, or ticks. It causes fever, nodules on the skin and can also lead to death, especially in animals that that have not previously been exposed to the virus. Symptoms ; -Firm raised skin nodules up to 50mm in diameter develop around the head, neck, genitals and limbs. Nodules can develop on any part of the body. -Scabs develop in the centre of the nodules after which the scabs fall off, leaving large holes that may become infected. -Swelling of limbs, brisket and genitals may occur -Reluctance to move and eat -Nasal and ocular discharges -Enlarged superficial lymph nodes -Drop in milk production -Abortion Lumpy skin disease