Agriculture

A.M.
Chamodi Thilanka Pilimathalawwa

BSc. (Hon) Agriculture, WUSL
Plans rearing systems of cattle while selecting suitable cattle breeds
Learning outcomes
1. Compares physical features of various cattle breeds
2. Selects suitable cattle breeds for animal husbandry zones in Sri Lanka
3. Describes rearing systems of cattle
4. Describe the type of cattle houses
5. Explains the importance of cattle houses
Dairy cattle can be divided into three main groups.

● Dairy cattle and buffalo cattle are reared in Sri Lanka
1. Dairy cattle of Indian origin

2. Dairy cattle of European origin
3. Local dairy cattle
Compare the disparities between dairy cattle of Indian origin and dairy cattle of European origin
Indian (Bos indicus) European (Bos taurus)
Can tolerate to high temperature Cannot tolerate to high temperature
Body relatively small Body relatively bigger
The hump is well grown Hump is small
Well grown navel flap and dewlap Not well grown
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A.M.Chamodi Thilanka Pilimathalawwa
Back of the body is round in shape The back of the body is not round
More sweat glands in a unit area of the skin Less sweat glands in a unit area of the skin
Skin is leathery and movable Skin is firmly attached to the body
Resistant to tick fever and external parasites Not resistant
Bulls are suitable to carry weight Not suitable
Low milk production High milk production
Short fur Long hairs
High fat percentage in milk Relatively low
High ability of food digestion Relatively low
Indian cattle - Red Sindhi European cattle - Fresian

Sahiwal Irieshire
Jersey
European cattle
Jersey
The Jersey cattle are relatively a smaller-sized dairy cattle breed. Their body color is usually
slightly red, deep brown or mixed. They have relatively long-sized heads, and they typically
have no hunchback.
Fresian
Breed of large dairy cattle originating in northern Holland and Friesland. Its chief characteristics
are its large size and black and white spotted markings, sharply defined rather than blended.
Ayrshire
Ayrshires are red and white in colour. The red colour is a reddish-brown mahogany that varies in
shade from very light to very dark.Ayrshires are medium-sized cattle and weigh approximately
over 1200 pounds at maturity. They are strong, rugged cattle that adapt to all management
systems including group handling on dairy farms with free stalls and milking parlors.
Indian cattles
Red Sindhi
● This breed is otherwise called as Red Karachi and Sindhi.
● This breed mostly found in Karachi and Hyderabad district of Pakistan.
● Colour is red with shades varying from dark red to light, strips of white.
● Milk yield ranges from 1100-2600 kgs.
● Widely used in crossbreeding programmes.
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● Age at first calving 39-50 months and inter calving period from 425-540 days.
Sahiwal
● Originated in Montgomery district in present Pakistan.
● This breed otherwise known as Lola (loose skin), Lambi Bar, Montgomery, Multani, Teli.
● The colour is reddish dun or pale red, sometimes flashed with white patches.
● The average milk yield of this breed is between 2,725 and 3,175 kgs in lactation period of
300 days
-Australian Milking Zebu-AMZ and Australian Fresian Sahiwal-AFS are produced by crossing the
breeds Sahiwal and Sindhi of Indian origin with Jersey of European origin.
-AMZ is mostly reared in central and southern wet zones, in dry zone and the coconut triangle.
Special features of local dairy cattle.
● A cattle breed with a small body size

● These animals are robust. Grows very well even without a rearing system.
● Body colour is either black or red.White spots can be seen.
● A mature male animal weighs about 273 kg while a mature female animal weighs about 182
kg. 628 L of milk could be obtained in one lactation.
● Used to obtain milk and meat, for ploughing and to carry weights.
Buffalo cattle breeds reared in Sri Lanka.
● Murrah
● Surti
● Nili Ravi
● Local breeds
Murrah
● It is the most important breed of buffaloes whose home is Rohtak, Hisar and Jind of
Haryana, Nabha and Patiala districts of Punjab and southern parts of Delhi state.
● This is otherwise called as Delhi, Kundi and Kali.
● The colour is usually jet black with white markings on tail and face and extremities
sometimes found.
● The tightly curved horn is an important character of this breed.
● The buffalo cows of this breed are one of the most efficient milk and butter fat producers in
India.
● Butter fat content is 7%. Average lactation yield is varying from 1500-2500 kgs and the
average milk yield is 6.8 kgs /day.
● It is also used for the grading up of inferior local buffaloes.
Surti
● The breeding tract of this breed is Kaira and Baroda district of Gujarat.
● Coat colour varies from rusty brown to silver-grey. Skin is black or brown.
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● The horns are sickle shaped, moderately long and flat.

● The peculiarity of the breed is two white collars, one round the jaw and the other at the
brisket.
● The milk yield ranges from 900 to 1300 kgs.
● The peculiarity of this breed is very high fat percentage in milk (8-12per cent).
Nili Ravi
● This breed is found in Sutlej valley in Ferozpur district of Punjab and in the Sahiwal district of
Pakistan. (Bred around Ravi river).
● The peculiarity of the breed is the wall eyes.
● The milk yield is 1500-1850 kgs per lactation.
● The intercalving period is 500-550 days and age at first calving is 45-50 months.
Major rearing systems of cattle in Sri Lanka.
● Free-range
● Semi intensive
● Intensive
Free -range method
In a free-range cattle rearing system, cattle are allowed to graze and roam freely in open
pastures or natural landscapes. This system is characterized by minimal human intervention
and management. Cattle rely on natural forage and water sources for their sustenance. This
system is generally less intensive in terms of labor and resources because it takes advantage of
the cattle's ability to find their own food. However, it might lead to lower productivity and slower
growth rates due to the reliance on sometimes limited natural resources (Foods, Water and
minerals)
The Semi Intensive metod
The semi-intensive cattle rearing system strikes a balance between free-range and intensive
systems. In this system, cattle are provided with access to both natural grazing areas and
supplementary feed, often in the form of grains, forage crops, or other formulated feeds. While
cattle are allowed to graze in open areas, they are also kept in enclosures or pens to control
their movement and provide better care. This system aims to enhance productivity by offering
controlled feeding and management while still partially relying on natural resources.
Intensive System
In an intensive cattle rearing system, cattle are kept in confinement for most of their lives. This
system involves providing controlled environments, strict feeding regimes, and veterinary care to
maximize productivity. Cattle in intensive systems are usually raised in enclosed barns or
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feedlots where their nutrition, health, and growth can be closely monitored and managed. This
system tends to result in faster growth rates and higher yields compared to free-range and
semi-intensive systems. However, it requires significant investments in infrastructure, labor, and
feed resources.
Intensive method, cattle are reared in permanent cattle house and the animals are fed in the houses
themselves.
importance of providing houses for cattle.
● To protect the animals from unfavourable climatic conditions like heat, cold and wind
● To protect the animals from thieves or any external threats.
● To provide sufficient food and water
● To methodically and cleanly perform functions such as milking
● To facilitate waste management
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Exhibits the readiness to follow the appropriate practices of handling calves
Learning outcomes :
1. Explains the importance of calf rearing.

2. Distinguishes the growth stages of calves.
3. Explains rearing systems followed for infant calves after birth.
4. Describes the weaning process.
5. Decribes special rearing systems followed for calves.
“The calf today is a dairy cow tomorrow''
Animals aged one year since their birth are known as ''calves''.
The importance of correct and systematic calf rearing.
● Ability to reduce death rates during the first two weeks after birth
● Ability to obtain healthy dairy cattle who reach sexual maturity with a suitable weight.
● Acquiring strong dairy cattle with longevity
● Acquiring well-grown dairy cattle who can consume a large quantity of roughages and
have a spacious body capacity
● Ability to impregnate early (obtaining offspring at the ages of 2-2.5 years due to reaching
sexual maturity at the right time)
● Obtaining high-quality products
Various growth stages of a calf:
● Neonatal
● Early stages up to 3 weeks of birth
● From 3 weeks of birth up to weanning (aged 8-12 weeks)
● Animals weaned after 12 weeks (up to 6 months)
Neonatal Stage:
Rearing Activities: The neonatal stage is the period right after the calf is born. During this stage,
important activities include ensuring colostrum intake (the first milk rich in antibodies), providing
a clean and dry environment, and monitoring the calf's health.
Importance: Colostrum intake is crucial for the calf's immune system development. A clean and
dry environment prevents disease transmission and helps the calf maintain body temperature.
Proper care during this stage sets the foundation for the calf's overall health and growth.
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Rearing activties conducted at the moment of birth
● Removing respiratory difficulties- Removing mucus in the nostrils.

● Allowing the mother to lick
● Cleaning the calf - making to sneeze by inserting something into its nose
● Easing respiration by rubbing the animal with hay or a dry cloth
● Cutting the placenta with a sterilized pair of scissors and applying an antiseptic like
tincture iodine.
● Measuring the birth weight and noting it down.
● Checking for other abnormalties.
● Allowing to suckle 1/2 an hour after birth.
● Liquid produced during the first 4-5 days after parturition is called ''colostrum''.
Early Stages up to 3 Weeks of Birth:
Rearing Activities: During this period, activities include regular feeding of milk or milk replacer,
monitoring the calf's growth and health, and providing basic shelter.
Importance: Adequate nutrition and health monitoring are essential for the calf's proper growth
and immune system development. Proper feeding ensures the calf receives the necessary
nutrients for growth and energy.
From 3 Weeks of Birth up to Weaning (Aged 8-12 Weeks):
Rearing Activities: Apart from continued milk feeding, introducing solid feed like calf starter,
offering clean water, ensuring proper vaccination, and monitoring for any health issues.
Importance: This stage prepares the calf's digestive system for the transition from a milk-based
diet to solid feed. The calf learns to eat and adapt to new foods, and proper vaccination helps
prevent diseases as the immune system matures.
Animals Weaned After 12 Weeks (Up to 6 Months):
Rearing Activities: Gradually transitioning the calf from milk to a balanced diet of solid feed,
providing adequate space and shelter, managing social interactions with other calves, and
continuing health care practices.
Importance: Weaning marks a significant transition in the calf's diet. A balanced diet during this
stage ensures proper growth and muscle development. Adequate space and social interactions
contribute to behavioral and psychological development.
Each growth stage is crucial for the calf's overall development, and proper rearing practices
during these stages have a lasting impact on the animal's health, growth, and productivity.
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The differences between colostrum and normal cow milk
Importance of providing colostrum.

● Provides nutrition for calves.
● Provides immunity protecting calves from diseases.
● The laxative effect helps defeacation for the first time.
● Ease of digestion and absorption due to the small size of fat globules.
Techniques that can be followed if the calf would be unable to gain colostrum due to
reasons such as the death of its mother.
Preparing colostrum
The method of preparing colostrum artificially.

Ingredients
6 egg whites 1 teaspoonful of cod liver oil

3/4 L milk 1 teaspoonful of caster oil
1/4 L clean water 1/2 g antibiotics
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The liquid prepared by mixing the above ingredients should be provided in a quantity of
3-4kg a day for a European calf and 2-3kg for a day for an Iindian calf for about a week.
The manner one should follow in order to obtain a healthy calf with a correct weight by
nourishing them from birth till the age of weaning.
● Daily milk requirement - During the first month milk should be provided in a quantity
of 10% of the calf's body weight (3 kg of fresh milk per day).
- It is gradually reduced till weaning.
Accustoming to milk feeding - Acclimatizing to drink naturally or by a bucket

Providing 100-200 g of roughages, rations and concentrates by 2 weeks.
Providing clean water unlimitedly throughout the day
Qualities essential for an animal to be weaned

● The weight of the animal should be twice its birth weight (10-12 weeks).
● By this age more than 7 kg of fresh roughage and concentrates should be supplied.
● Also about 10g of mineral supplements should be provided per day.
Provision of houses
The problems that could arise when the mother cow starts to live with other animals in the
herd and the importance of providing houses to calves.
● When the calves suck more milk the produce is lowerd. This situation can be
avoided by providing houses separately.
● It prevents calves from licking one another when they are reared in the group
method. This
● prevents the formation of fur balls in the rumen.
Facts to be considered when providing houses for calves.

● Providing single cages at the first stage and putting them into common cages later.
● The place should be dry, clean, free of strong winds and should have a peaceful
atmosphere.
● Space that should be provided at various stages
For infant's calves- 75x150 cm - approximately 1.5 m2 for 1 animal

At 2 months - common cages and 1.5 m2 for 1animal
- 6-8 animals in one cage
At 3 months - 2.88 m2 per animal
- 6-8 animals in one cage
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Weaning is the process of transitioning a young animal, such as a calf, from a diet primarily
consisting of milk or milk replacer to one that includes solid feed. This transition is important for
the calf's growth, development, and eventual integration into the larger herd
Practices that should be followed when maintaining herds of calves

● Tagging
● Tatooing
● Castration
● Ringing - nose ring and Rosen rope application
Need of the following rearing systems in addition to the above ones:

Ensuring health and safety
Keeping records
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Investigates the ways to impregnate dairy cattle successfully

Learning outcomes :
1. Draws the structure of the reproductive system of a cow and names its parts
2. Describes the structure of a cow's reproductive system and it's functioning.
3. Describes the oestrous cycle.
4. States the hormones that affect the oestrous cycle.
5. Lists the heat signs of cows.
6. Describes the method of impregnating cows.
Growth stages of a dairy cow (Ex: infantal stage, weaning stage, growth stage/heifers,
matured stage)
Generally a cow reaches sexual maturity, in 12-14 months.

Cows that have reached sexual maturity are suitable for impregnation.
A cow could be used for sexual reproduction when it reaches 2/3rd of its matured weight
and reaching this age is called sexual maturity.
At that stage the growth of the reproductive system and the growth of the cow have reached
an expedient level.
It is important to have an understanding of the reproductive system of the cow for
impregnation.
The structure of the reproductive system of a cow with the aid of a diagram.
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● Ovary- Production of ova and sexual hormones
● Fallopian tubes - Ovum fertilization, secretion of mucus during parturition and when
reaching the oestrous
● Uterus - Implantation of the embryo providing nourishment and protection for the
embryo
● Vagina - Depositing sperms during sexual intercourse, acting as a birth canal during
parturition
● Vulva - Secretion of mucus
It should be concerned about the oestrous cycle and heat signs when impregnating a
sexually matured dairy cow.
The oestrous cylce.

In cows that have reached puberty,movulation occurs once in 21 days. Nearing ovulation
oestrogen hormone level in the blood increases and heat signs appear. These heat signs
are the physical and behavioural changes displayed with the increase in the oestrogen
concentration in blood and they reflect desire for sexual reproduction.This stage in which
heat signs appear is called the oestrous.
Heat signs reappear 21 days after one oestrous. Since it is periodic it is known as the
oestrous cycle. The oestrous cycle is the interval bertween the beginning of one oestrous
and the beginning of the other oestrous.
The oestrous cycle is mainly controlled by the internally secreted sexual hormones.
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Major hormones that regulate the oestrous cycle and the organs / structures
1. Follicle stimulation hormone - FSH (Secreted by the interior lobe of the pituitary gland)
2. Luteinizing hormone- LH (Secreted by the interior lobe of the pituitary gland)
3. Oestrogen - (Secreted by the developing graffian follicle)
4. Progesterone - (Secreted by the corpus luteum)
During the oestrus cycle a lot of physical changes in the uterus,vagina and ovary occur due
to the impact of these hormones and the oestrous cycle can be divided into four
stages according to those changes:
1. Pro-oestrous 2-3 days
2. Oestrous 18 hours
3. Met-oestrous 3-4 days
4. Die-oestrous 12-13 days
21 days
Pro-oestrous - The stage before the beginning of oestrous

Hormonal activity
The growth of follicles begin with the effect of the FSH hormone on the ovaries during this
period.
Changes taking place
● Thickning of the mucus layer which acts as an interior liming to the uterus
● Enlargement of the muscle fibres in the walls of the uterus
● Secretion of mucus from the cervix
● Reddening of the vagina
Oestrous- The time which female animals show desire for sexual intercourse. Cows shows
heat sings during this stage.
● Allowing sexual intercourse / homosexual behaviour
● Uneasiness
● Repetitive screams, frquent urination
● Enlargement of external sexual organs
● Reddening of the vagina and secretion of mucus from the vagina
● Raising the tail frequently
● Getting isolated from other animals
Hormonal activity :
Oestrogen secretion from the graffian follicle gradually increases. When the oestrogen
reaches a certain level, the FSH level in blood decreases, while the LH level increases.
Ovum is released in this stage (ovulation).
Met Oestrous- The stage in which oestrous ends is known as met oestrous.The physical
and behavioural changes occur with the oestrous subsides during this stage and return to
the normal state.
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The progesterone hormone secreted by the corpus luteum formed after ovulation, prevents
animal's subjection to heat.
Ensuring the fixing of the embryo, nourishing embryo and growth of the memmory glands
are the other functions of the corpus luteum.The amount of oestrogen produced by the
ovary decreases during this stage.
Die oestrous- This is the end of the oestrous cycle. It is the interval between the end of the
oestrous to the beginning of the next oestrous cycle.
When the ovum fertilization does not occur, the growth of the corpus luteum stops and it
gradually gets reduced.This causes the progesterone level to decrease.
With that, the pituitary gland secretes the FSH hormone which stimulates, follicle growth,
starting another oestrous cycle.
Die Oestrous occurs only when impregnation does not occur.
Most convenient time to inseminate a cow is 12-18 hours after the oestrous begins.
-Animals showing heat signs in the morning hours should be inseminated in the evening of
the same day.
-Animals showing heat signs in the evening hours should be inseminated next morning the
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following day.
Inseminating 6 hours before the oestrous period or 18 hours after showing heat signs
causes a low pregnancy rate.
Cattle insemination could be carried out in two methods:
1. Natural insemination
2. Artificial insemination
Natural insemination- Getting to a bull to sexually intercourse with a cow which shows heat
signs.
Artificial insemination - Depositing the semen produced by a selected stud bull with
advanced features through certain techniques after examining it. The semen is deposited in
the vagina (the end of the cervix) of a cow which shows heat signs.
Steps of artificial insemination.

1. Sperm collection
An artificial vagina is used for this process.
It is made according to the natural features of the vagina of a live dairy cow,
namely:warmth,pressure and smoothness.
2.Assessment of sperm
● Sperm samples are subjected to visual and microscopic observation.
● Visual observations- sperm colour, viscosity, volume, pH
● Microscopic observations- sperm mobility sperm concentration,abnormal sperm
percentage, dead and live sperm percentage and bacteria infections etc.
● Dilution and addition of preservatives
Importance of sperm dilution.

● The ability to process a large number of samples from one sample obtained from
one secretion.
● To avoid the destruction of sperms produced from the reproductive system of a bull
after secreting semen to the external environment, due to a lack of nutrients and a
suitable environment to live in.
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Substances that can be used to make dilution media for sperms.
● Egg yolk citrate (Egg yolk and 2.9 % sodium citrate medium)
● Egg yolk phosphate
● Milk media
Essential features of a diluted medium.

● An osmotic pressure favourable for sperms
● Non toxic for sperms
● Controlling the pH value in the medium
Freezing and storage

● If the sperms are not used immediately after dilution they should be stored.
● Sperms are freezed or de-freezed depending on the time period in which they are
used.
● Sperms are kept in the refrigerator at a temperature of 40 Cafter putting them into
semen straws .
● Viability of sperms of this type rapidly slackens and should be used within 3-4 days.
Sperms made this way are called ''chilled semen''.
● Defreezing method is used when storing sperms for a long period of time.
● Sperms can be stored using liquid nitrogen at -196 0C
Method of sperm de-freezing.

The semen straws are stored in a refrigerator for 5-16 hours to bring the temperature to
4-50C . Then the semen straws are staked in a rack and exposed to liquid nitrogen vapour
(-800C)
Then it is kept in a liquid nitrogen container.
Glycerol is added to the diluted solution. It prevents the adverse effects of freezing.
0.5 ml-1ml plastic tubes are used to store semen. Their size varies with the species.
The straws should be labelled with numbers or any other marks before filling in semen to
them.
Sperm transportation
Strong containers that can maintain low temperatures should be used in sperm
transportation.
Damages caused to defreezed sperms transportation could be avoided by using containers
with liquid nitrogen .
16
Insemination of cattle
The recto-vaginal method is used in the insemination of cattle.
How the recto-vaginal method is performed.
1. First the external sexual organs of the animal on oestrous should be cleaned and
dried.
2. One hand is entered into the anus and the cervix situated at the inner end of the
vagina is touched.
3. After that, the sperms are deposited on the cervix by entering the pippette containing
sperms by the other hand.
4. Underscore the fact that the service of a professional versed in inseminating animals
is required for this.
Advantages and disadvantages of artificial insemination.

Advantages
● Ability to use animals of advanced hereditary characteristics for breeding.
● Ability to use the animal's sperms in foreign countries even after its death for
insemination by defreezing the sperms.
● Ability to reduce the spread of sexually transmitted diseases.
● Ability to obtain a large number of calves from one stud bull.
● Ability to use an animal for breeding even if it is disabled and has good features.
● Ability to evade dangers that could be caused by stud bulls.
Disadvantages
● Animals with an unsuitable heridity could be widely used for artificial insemination
when there's no proper selection method.
● Producers might not be able to select an animal suitable for their requirements.
● In-breeding could be increased due to the use of a small number of animals.
● A large amount of capital and proper organization is required to provide aftificial
insemination services.
● Professional technicians are essential .
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Inquires into the rearing methods of pregnant cows

Learning outcomes :
1. Describes the manner of providing food for pregnant cows.
2. Lists parturition symptoms of pregnant cows.
3. Describes how cow and the place are prepared for parturition.
Cows which do not show heat signs 21-42 days after insemination are known as ''pregnant
cows''.
The gestation period of a dairy cow is 274 ± 10 days.
Importance of paying a attention to the dairy cows during their gestation period.
● To avoid slipping and congestion of cows in cattle houses and grasslands.
● To prevent infections from other animals.
● Gestation is a period when cows are more susceptible to metabolic disorders such as
hypocalcemia (milk fever), ketosis, and fatty liver. These conditions can have serious
consequences for the cow's health and subsequent milk production. Adequate nutrition
and management strategies can help prevent these disorders.
How pregnant cows are nourished correctly

Importance of nourishing pregnant cows properly
To provide nutrition for their growth, sustenance, embryonic growth and for milk production.
Nutritional needs of pregnant cows reaches the climax due to the rapid growth of the embryo
during the last 2 months of the gestation period.
The required nutrition should be provided in order to obtain a high yield of milk during the period
of lactation.
nutritional mineral mixture should be suppliedand is important for the extra requirement of
calcium, phospherous, magnesium and micronutrients.
Nutritional needs of pregnant cows could be obtained from nutrient charts.
Drying should be done two months prior to parturition.
Importance of drying.
It makes possible the storing of nutrients essential for the growing embryo and the next lactation
period and also the repair of worn out tissues in the udder.
At this time grass should be provided while concentrates should be provided 10% more than the
usual quantity.
Water should be provided in sufficient quantity less.
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Managing cow lactation cycle
Freshening (Calving) Phase:

● Provide a clean and comfortable calving environment to reduce stress and risk of
infections.
● Monitor calving closely and assist if necessary.
● Ensure the calf receives colostrum within the first few hours to establish strong
immunity.
● Begin the transition to a lactation diet, gradually increasing energy intake to
support milk production.
Early Lactation Phase:
● Focus on providing highly nutritious and balanced diets to meet the increased
energy and nutrient demands for milk production.
● Monitor and manage cow health closely, as they are more susceptible to
metabolic disorders during this phase.
● Provide adequate water and access to fresh feed.
● Implement proper milking procedures and udder health management to prevent
mastitis.
● Monitor milk production and adjust feed ration if needed based on production
levels.
Mid-Lactation Phase:
● Continue providing a balanced diet to maintain milk production and cow health.
● Monitor body condition score and adjust diet as necessary to prevent excessive
weight loss or obesity.
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● Maintain udder health through consistent milking procedures and hygiene

practices.
● Continue monitoring milk production and making necessary adjustments.
Late Lactation Phase:
● Gradually reduce the cow's energy intake as milk production naturally starts to
decline.
● Monitor body condition score and prevent overconditioning, which can affect
future fertility.
● Plan for the upcoming dry period by preparing for drying off and adjusting cow
management accordingly.
Dry Period:
● Provide a dry cow ration that meets the cow's nutritional needs while allowing the
udder to involute and regenerate.
● Use this time to address any udder health issues and prevent infections.
● Consider implementing a dry cow therapy program to manage mastitis.
● Focus on cow comfort and stress reduction to promote a successful transition to
the next lactation.
Transition Phase (Pre-Freshening):
● Gradually transition cows from their dry period diet to a lactation diet before
calving.
● Pay close attention to cow comfort and minimize stress during this sensitive
period.
● Monitor for signs of impending calving and ensure a clean and comfortable
calving environment.
Gestation period is 280 days and at the end of those 280 days, the pregnant cow gives
birth to a calf. This is called parturition.
Fact that from parturition symptoms it can be identified that the pregnent cow is about
to give birth to the calf.
Parturition symptoms of a pregnant cow

● Enlargement of the udder which is filled with milk
● Secretion of milk as drops when the udder is squeezed by fingertips
● Slight enlargement of the vagina and secretion of mucus
● Restlessness.
● Intermittent standing and lying.
● Discharge of a bag filled with liquid through the vagina when parturition nears
● Curling up its back , raising its tail
Manner of preparing the dairy cow for parturition

● Isolating from other animals a few days before parturition
● Repairing damages on the floor
● Providing clean water to drink
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● Washing the backside and the udder of the cow with soap
Way of preparing a place for parturition.

● Spreading hay on the ground and making a lining
● Removing stones/rocks on the ground
Steps that must be followed during parturition.
● Checking if the calf has come out by 2 hours after the rupture of the water bag
● Seeking instructions of a veteinerarian if it delays
● Removing the placenta to prevent the cow from eating it
● Providing a bit of grass afterwards
● Vaccinating dairy cows who show mineral deficiency, according to the advice of a
veterirarian
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A.M.

Chamodi Thilanka Pilimathalawwa

Plans rearing systems of cattle while selecting suitable cattle breeds

Dairy cattle can be divided into three main groups.

1. Dairy cattle of Indian origin

Indian (Bos indicus) European (Bos taurus)

Can tolerate to high temperature Cannot tolerate to high temperature

Body relatively small Body relatively bigger

The hump is well grown Hump is small

Well grown navel flap and dewlap Not well grown

Skin is leathery and movable Skin is firmly attached to the body

Resistant to tick fever and external parasites Not resistant

Bulls are suitable to carry weight Not suitable

Low milk production High milk production

Short fur Long hairs

High fat percentage in milk Relatively low

High ability of food digestion Relatively low

Indian cattle - Red Sindhi European cattle - Fresian

Special features of local dairy cattle.

● A cattle breed with a small body size

Buffalo cattle breeds reared in Sri Lanka.

● The horns are sickle shaped, moderately long and flat.

Major rearing systems of cattle in Sri Lanka.

Free -range method

The Semi Intensive metod

importance of providing houses for cattle.

Exhibits the readiness to follow the appropriate practices of handling calves

1. Explains the importance of calf rearing.

“The calf today is a dairy cow tomorrow''

The importance of correct and systematic calf rearing.

Various growth stages of a calf:

Rearing activties conducted at the moment of birth

● Removing respiratory difficulties- Removing mucus in the nostrils.

Early Stages up to 3 Weeks of Birth:

From 3 Weeks of Birth up to Weaning (Aged 8-12 Weeks):

Animals Weaned After 12 Weeks (Up to 6 Months):

The differences between colostrum and normal cow milk

Importance of providing colostrum.

The method of preparing colostrum artificially.

6 egg whites 1 teaspoonful of cod liver oil

Accustoming to milk feeding - Acclimatizing to drink naturally or by a bucket

Qualities essential for an animal to be weaned

Facts to be considered when providing houses for calves.

For infant's calves- 75x150 cm - approximately 1.5 m2 for 1 animal

Practices that should be followed when maintaining herds of calves

Need of the following rearing systems in addition to the above ones:

Investigates the ways to impregnate dairy cattle successfully

Generally a cow reaches sexual maturity, in 12-14 months.

● Ovary- Production of ova and sexual hormones

The oestrous cylce.

Pro-oestrous - The stage before the beginning of oestrous

Steps of artificial insemination.

Importance of sperm dilution.

Substances that can be used to make dilution media for sperms.

Essential features of a diluted medium.

Freezing and storage

Method of sperm de-freezing.

The recto-vaginal method is used in the insemination of cattle.

How the recto-vaginal method is performed.

Advantages and disadvantages of artificial insemination.

Inquires into the rearing methods of pregnant cows

How pregnant cows are nourished correctly

Managing cow lactation cycle

​ Freshening (Calving) Phase:

Freshening (Calving) Phase: