Enhancing Dairy Yield: Innovations on Artificial Induction of Lactation in Cows

ABSTRACT

This review was undertaken to examine the function of artificial induction of lactation and in economic importance of artificial induction of lactation in dairy cows. The narration-style presentation of the relevant scientific references is sourced from many websites. Stimulation of the udder and teats (e.g., by massage) at the time of milking causes the release of prolactin. Lactation-induced cows produced 65% of the milk yields achieved by 150 days in milk (DIM) as compared to non-treated cows. Synchronizing estrous cycles with prostaglandin PGF2α injections improves success rates of induced lactations, but not milk yields. Recombinant somatotropin induction in tropical regions shows limited studies, affecting response to treatment, compared to temperate climates. Milk production is increased by using growth hormone, Bovine somatotropin (bSTr), and reserpine injections. Releasing prolactin on days 13-16 and 8-10 increases success rate from 40% to 100% in cows (success > 9 kg milk/d at peak yield). Artificially inducing lactation in nonpregnant cows leads to lower days to first service as compared to non-treated cows using estrous and ovulation control regimens. In conclusion, this review confirms that reproductive performance and milk composition are not adversely affected by the artificial induction of lactation. Prolactin supplementation can increase the amount of milk produced in artificially induced lactation cows by providing more proof that the hormones (estrogen, progesterone, prolactin, and glucocorticoids) interact synergistically to initiate lactogenesis. Significant culling of high-producing cows with low fertility reduces the profitability of dairy farms as those cows are replaced with heifers. Therefore, artificially inducing lactation in nonpregnant cows may be a management alternative to reduce culling and increase profits. This approach gives owners a fantastic choice for keeping a herd with high genetic potential for milk production, avoiding unproductive animals in the herd, fostering new prospects for reproduction, and boosting earnings.

Keywords: Artificial Induced Lactation-mechanisms, Dairy Cow, Economics, Prolactin and Somatotropin