Incidences of Reproductive Disorder in Dairy Cattle in Embalaje, District, Tigray, Ethiopia

Abstract

In the previous study, little evidence was conducted to investigate dairy reproductive disorders. Hence, this study analyzed the incidence of dairy reproductive disorders and associated risk factors such as socio-demographic characteristics and management practices of 285 dairy farmers. Accordingly, the assessment revealed that the dairy owners (respondents) were predominantly male, middle-aged, and married individuals. A significant portion of the dairy owners (respondents) reported to have higher education status, although a quarter of them were illiterate. Most farmers operated small-scale dairy farms, with milk production being the primary purpose of production. Crossbred cattle were the most commonly used breeds, and most farmers maintained cattle in good body condition. Among the dairy management practices employed, feeding systems and housing hygiene showed notable impacts on dairy health status. Reproductive health disorders which include prolapse (2.17%), abortion (10.14%), dystocia (14.49%) and retain placenta (5.8%) were reported to be frequently occurring, with vaginal prolapse (54.71%) being the most common. Factors such as poor nutrition, lack of hygiene, and environmental stress were identified as contributors to reproductive disorders (health issues), which often led to financial losses and decreased milk yield. Statistical analysis revealed significant associations between various factors—including herd size, feeding practices, water sources, and housing hygiene—and the occurrence of reproductive health disorders. Additionally, sex and age of dairy owners, and breed type played a role in the occurrence of health problems. The majority of farmers had access to veterinary services, though satisfaction with these services varied, with many expressing dissatisfaction with the quality of care. Generally the current finding revealed that reproductive health problems commonly exist in the study area through their percentage and types vary from time to time; hence, regular reproductive health management and proper formulation of ration could be the possible solutions to alleviate the problems encountered in different production systems.