Boosting Cow Fertility: The Power of Energy Management

Energy is the lifeblood of a cow, fuelling her body for essential functions like milk production, immunity, and calving. When energy levels dip, it can have significant repercussions on her fertility. That’s why we created our Energy & Metabolism Programme, featuring our Booster products,—to give cows the extra boost they need during challenging times.

Understanding Negative Energy Balance (NEB) Post-Calving

Every dairy cow experiences a natural energy dip, known as Negative Energy Balance (NEB), after calving. During this time, the demand for energy exceeds intake, particularly in the critical early lactation period. This imbalance is exacerbated by the calf’s rapid growth in the final weeks of pregnancy, placing additional strain on the cow’s energy reserves.

The Dangers of Fatty Liver

In an attempt to restore energy balance, cows in NEB mobilise body fat for fuel. If the cow mobilises a lot of body fat, this can lead to fatty liver issues. Too much fat in the liver not only impairs liver function but also compromises glucose production and immune response, making her more susceptible to bacterial invasions and other health issues.

Importantly, fatty liver has significant implications for fertility in dairy cows. The condition can interfere with reproductive processes at multiple levels, ultimately leading to reduced fertility and conception rates. Here’s how fatty liver impacts fertility:

How does fatty liver impact fertility?

1. Poor Uterine Recovery

Cows with fatty liver may experience delayed or incomplete uterine recovery after calving, increasing the likelihood of retained placenta. This delayed uterine involution can create an environment conducive to bacterial invasions and reproductive complications.

2. Reduced Ovarian Activity

Fatty liver can disrupt ovarian function, leading to irregular estrous cycles and reduced ovarian activity. Cows may exhibit anestrus (lack of estrus) or prolonged intervals between estrus cycles, making it challenging to detect heat and time inseminations effectively

3. Lower Conception Rates

Fatty liver has been associated with decreased conception rates in dairy cows. The metabolic disturbances and hormonal imbalances resulting from the condition can impair the cow’s reproductive physiology, making it more difficult to achieve and maintain pregnancy.

Addressing Negative Energy Balance (NEB) with AHV Solutions

Effectively managing NEB is vital for sustaining cow performance and fertility. Our AHV solutions offer tailored support, empowering cows to overcome energy challenges and thrive even during challenging periods.

For cows experiencing signs of poor energy intake from their diet, we recommend administering AHV Booster Tablet (14-7 days before calving). AHV Booster Tablet encourages efficient energy utilisation from the ration while supporting optimal rumen function. This proactive approach significantly boosts the chances of successful ovulation, resulting in enhanced fertilisation rates.

In situations demanding a rapid energy boost, combining AHV Booster Drench Powder with the Booster Tablet is the ideal solution. This duo effectively replenishes the rumen post-calving, filling the void created by the calf’s birth and mitigating the risk of abomasum displacement. By promptly addressing energy requirements and ensuring hydration, drenching with AHV Booster Powder not only kickstarts rumination but also aids in the cleansing and recovery process post calving.

To learn more about how supporting your cow’s energy balance can boost fertility performance, complete the form below and your local AHV consultant will get back to you!