Description

The present investigation explored the important production and fertility parameters of cows in the private "mini-dairy farms" recently established in the district of Natore, Bangladesh. In total, 313 cows were studied for fertility-related parameters viz.interval between calving, onset of postpartum oestrus, open days, days wasted and service/ conception with regard to the ventilation and floor pattern of animals sheds, breed, body weight, age, parity, health condition, feeding and reproductive disorders. Proper ventilation, Concrete floor, Holstein-Friesian and Jersey crossbred, Middle age-animals (5-7yrs), 4th parity, Heavier body (301-401kg), Health condition (Grade-1) and Well balanced concentrates (Grade-1) feed have shown improved the productivity and fertility status of the cows, however the reproductive performance was better in the selected local zebu cattle. In average, 26.33% animals were suffering from different types of reproductive disorders of which retained foetal membrane and pyometra individually constituted (4.5%). In conclusions, the cow of the mini-dairy farm has good fertility; however, the incidence of reproductive disorders is alarming.