Influence of modifiable risk factors on the incidence of stillbirth/perinatal mortality in dairy cattle

Vet J. 2014 Jan;199(1):19-23. doi: 10.1016/j.tvjl.2013.08.004. Epub 2013 Aug 11.

Abstract

Bovine perinatal mortality is defined as the death of a full-term calf before, during or up to 48 h after calving. Recent studies indicate that the prevalence of bovine perinatal mortality is increasing, particularly in Holstein primiparae. Factors leading to a greater incidence of dystocia are the most important modifiable variables influencing the risk of perinatal mortality. Modifiable predictors are largely (age at first calving, breeding method, sire, calving management, feto-maternal health status and gestational nutrition) or moderately (calf breed, sex, gestation length) under the control of the dairy farm manager. Unlike non-modifiable risk factors, such as primiparity and fetal plurality, these factors can be manipulated to reduce the incidence of perinatal mortality.

Keywords: Dairy cattle; Management; Perinatal mortality; Risk factors; Stillbirth.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn
  • Cattle Diseases / mortality*
  • Cattle*
  • Female
  • Incidence
  • Pregnancy
  • Risk Factors
  • Stillbirth / veterinary*