Reproductive disorders including retained placenta, metritis, and ovarian cysts cause significant suffering in dairy cows. Prevention through nutrition and management improves both welfare and productivity.
Cattle reproductive welfare is most importantly addressed through prevention rather than treatment. The cascade of conditions following calving - retained placenta, metritis, displaced abomasum, and ketosis - often reflects insufficient attention to transition cow nutrition and management. Cows entering calving in poor body condition or experiencing excessive negative energy balance post-calving are far more susceptible to reproductive disorders. Veterinary programs that address transition cow management proactively reduce welfare events significantly while also improving production efficiency. When reproductive disorders do occur, prompt recognition and treatment with appropriate anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial therapy reduces both the severity and duration of welfare compromise.