Application of multiblock analysis to identify key areas and risk factors for dairy cow persistence.

The present study analysed the importance of individual variables and different thematic blocks of production areas, management, and herd infectious disease status on cow persistence, characterised by herd on-farm mortality rate (MR), culling rate (CR), and mean age of culled cows (MAofCC) applying multiblock partial least squares (mbPLS) analysis. This study included 120 free-stall dairy herds with ≥ 100 cows. Data on the previous year's predominant cow housing system and management practices were collected, and on-farm measurements and cow scoring were performed.

Attitudes and personality of farm managers and association with cow culling rates and longevity in large-scale commercial dairy farms.

The farmer has the central role in determining cow culling policies on their farm and thus affecting cow longevity. The present study aimed to examine farm managers´ satisfaction, attitudes, personality traits and analyse the associations with dairy cow culling and longevity in large commercial dairy farms. Farm managers of 116 dairy herds rearing at least 100 cows in freestall barns were included.

Seroprevalence of selected endemic infectious diseases in large-scale Estonian dairy herds and their associations with cow longevity and culling rates.

Herd culling rates and longevity represent herd health and welfare status as well as farm economic performance. The contribution of endemic circulation of the main cattle pathogens to herd performance has not been previously analysed. The aim of this study was to estimate the herd prevalence of selected endemic bovine pathogens among large commercial dairy herds and to analyse their associations with herd culling rates and longevity.

Culling reasons and risk factors in Estonian dairy cows.

Background: Culling is a major cost for dairy farms but also an essential part in managing herd productivity. This study aimed to identify the culling rates of Estonian dairy cows, identify the farmers' stated reasons and risk factors for culling. This observational study used registry data of all cows from herds with ≥20 cow-years in 2013-2015.