Dairy Cattle
Could a cow’s birth season impact its longevity and productivity? University of Florida researchers say yes—discover how heat stress at birth could shape a cow’s future.
With heifer prices at record highs, raising replacements on-farm can be a money saver since 2024 costs are much lower than buying on the market.
The U.S. dairy industry, driven by substantial investments and shifting consumer preferences, is poised for significant growth in the coming years.
The March Ag Economists’ Monthly Monitor asked economists if they think the U.S. general economy will see a recession in 2025. 62% said yes.
When a virus moves into a new geographical range or is reintroduced into a country that has maintained a negative status for a long period, SHIC’s Megan Niederwerder says it’s critical to reassess the risk to the U.S.
With beef-on-dairy calves in high demand, giving them the best start is essential for both their health and market value. Dr. Gail Carpenter outlines five key priorities for dairy farmers to focus on to help set these calves up for success.
Even mild cases can impact milk production, health and well-being. Researchers, citing expenses and losses farmers incur from the problem, say costs per case commonly range from $76, on the low end, to more than $336, on average.
Soon after the discovery of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) strain H5N1 in dairy cattle, scientists learned that milk was a primary vector in spreading the disease from cow to cow.
The U.S. bovine semen industry’s resurgence in 2024 signifies more than just a recovery. It represents a transformative wave of growth that is poised to impact livestock reproduction on a global scale.
One of the easiest and most effective biosecurity practices to adopt is having separate footwear and clothing for wearing on and off the farm or ranch. Check out the other five ideas our industry experts recommend.
Changes in BCS at dry-off and parturition have been associated with differences in health, performance, and survival.
When cows accumulate too much copper, it piles up in the liver. The result can be liver damage at the cellular level, liver necrosis, and impaired liver function.
Last week, the U.S. dollar had the worst week-to-week performance since 1995 and that, combined with global dairy price premiums, should spark some export interest and support domestic prices.
Specific lots may contain elevated or deficient levels of nutrients which may be harmful to cattle, the company says.
What is normal for calf body temperature, and when should they be treated for fevers? Industry experts weigh in on making temperature monitoring a routine part of daily calf care.
An unprecedented shift in the U.S. dairy cattle population could signal uncertainty ahead in terms of milk production, cow numbers, and prices – for both the milk and the animals.
Much of the West, Southwest and upper Midwest could use more moisture. Beef and dairy producers and their veterinarians might want to do some contingency planning for what’s shaping up to be a dry spring.
Have you ever wanted to post on social media but were worried about potential backlash? Knowing how to handle contentious issues online can help people understand the animal agriculture’s commitment to animal care.
While Lindsey Worden has remained with one employer since college, her passion for dairy could “easily fill a barn.” She illustrates that with a readiness to embrace change and seize opportunities, tremendous achievements are attainable. Her leadership at the Holstein Association is paving the way for innovations benefiting producers and the industry for years to come.
The dairy cattle market is currently experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand, creating a bustling atmosphere in the industry. As the competition heats up, market players are closely observing what is currently trending – is it beef-on-dairy calves or the traditional dairy replacements and fresh cows?
In the world of dairy farming, maximizing milk quality and cow comfort is paramount. Dr. Andy Johnson, famously known as ‘The Udder Doctor,’ has been at the forefront of this mission. With experience ranging from small farms with 20 cows to large-scale operations with 22,000 cows, Dr. Johnson’s insights have reached dairies across 30 countries and 47 states.
Sec. Mike Naig says the U.S. government is using what he describes as a three-legged stool approach to address the virus in the dairy and poultry industries.
As the nation grapples with immigration policy debates, the livelihoods of those within the dairy sector hang in balance, underscoring the urgent need for balanced reform that considers both economic imperatives and humanitarian values.
Cold, snow, wind, and more – winter in the northern climates brings extra challenges for dairies and their animals.
Monitoring heifer growth, and making management decisions based upon it, is proving to be an increasingly important practice to strike the delicate balance between economizing heifer development and breeding them at the correct stage to maximize their performance as mature cows.
Research shows feeding frequency has less impact on preweaned dairy calves’ performance than the total nutrients provided, despite logic suggesting more frequent feedings would help.
The increased use of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) to treat pyrexia and pain in dairy cattle infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) H5N1 prompted FDA to issue a warning to producers and veterinarians in October.
The report echoes calls by other scientists to ramp up the surveillance of felines, which are susceptible to the virus and have a high mortality rate. The AVMA says several cases in cats linked to poultry or wild bird exposure had been reported before the outbreak began in dairy cows last spring.
California native Serena Schotanus, a Kansas State University College of Veterinary Medicine student, is named the award recipient.