Lactation Induction Protocols and Cost Benefit Analysis in Repeat Breeding Cows

The present study was designed with an objective to induce lactation by various lactation induction protocols and to compare the cost benefit analysis of the protocols employed. Forty crossbred, nonlactating cattle with a history of repeat breeding for 15 to 20 months were selected for the present study. They were randomly divided into four equal groups with 10 animals in each group. Four different treatment protocols were used to induce lactation in these animals. Group 1 animals received twice daily 17β-estradiol (0.1mg/kg) and progesterone (0.25mg/kg) from day 1 to 7 daily by subcutaneous route. Reserpine (5mg/animal) and dexamethasone (20 mg/animal) were administered for 4 days (day 14 to 17) by intramuscular route. Group 2 animals received 17β-estradiol (0.1mg/kg) and progesterone (0.25mg/kg) from day 1 to 7 twice daily 12 h apart by subcutaneous route. Metoclopramide (0.1 mg/kg) and dexamethasone (20 mg/animal) were administered for 4 days (d 14 to 17) by intramuscular route. Animals in Group 3 and 4 initially received 2 doses of PGF_2a at 10 days apart followed by hormonal therapy similar to Group 1 and 2 respectively. Significant increase (P<0.05) in the 90 day milk yield and higher conception rate (%) was observed for those animals that were synchronized with 2 doses of PGF_2á (Group 3 and 4). Though the cost of treatment for the induction protocols used for group 3 and 4 were high, the margin of profit earned was higher for group III and IV compared to other groups.

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