calf Flashcards
(18 cards)
What is the purpose of animal health scoring systems?
To provide a structured and objective means of assessment for livestock managers.
What is the Wisconsin calf health scoring system used for?
To manage the health and welfare of calves at a crucial time in their lives.
How does the Wisconsin calf health scoring chart reduce subjectivity?
By providing a standardized scoring system for health assessment.
What is the scoring scale used in the Wisconsin calf health scoring chart?
A 0-3 scale.
List the attributes scored in the Wisconsin calf health scoring chart.
- Rectal temperature score
- Cough score
- Nasal discharge score
- Eye score
- Ear score
- Faecal score
True or False: The Wisconsin calf health scoring system is becoming less widely used.
False.
Fill in the blank: The Wisconsin calf health scoring chart helps managers score their calves using _______.
[visual aids]
What is the benefit of using health scoring systems in livestock management?
They increase the speed at which livestock can be treated.
What is the transition period (TP) for a cow?
21 days before calving to 21 days after calving (total 42 days)
The transition period is critical for the cow’s health and productivity.
What is the target body condition score (BCS) for a cow at calving?
3-3.5
A proper BCS helps ensure the cow’s health during the transition.
What is the primary goal during the calving period?
Maximise DMI (Dry Matter Intake)
Maximizing DMI is essential for recovery and milk production.
What should be minimized during the calving period?
Health issues
Minimizing health issues is crucial for the cow’s successful transition.
What is the main change in the cow’s state during the transition period?
Transitioning from dry state to lactating state
This transition involves significant physiological changes.
What happens to the cow’s energy and body condition during the transition?
Cow is losing energy and body condition
This loss poses risks to the cow’s health.
What is initiated at calving?
Lactation and production of colostrum
Colostrum is vital for the calf’s immunity.
What is the timeframe for the cow’s transition from dry to lactating?
42 days
This includes 21 days before and 21 days after calving.
True or False: The cow’s transition period is only 21 days.
False
The transition period is 42 days long.
Fill in the blank: The cow is producing _______ at calving.
colostrum
Colostrum is the first milk produced after giving birth.
