Intersucking in cattle
2002
Broucek, J. | Kisac, P. (Vyskumny Ustav Zivocisnej Vyroby, Nitra (Slovak Republic))
This article summarizes basic information on mutual sucking of calves, heifers and dairy cows. The sucking of calves becomes more intensive when the concentration of milk replacer and lactose is increased and decreases when the non-nitrogen components are removed from milk replacer. The largest number of suckings occurs after drinking and can be induced by barren environment. The lowest frequency of mutual sucking is found in automate drinking. Intersucking of dairy cows leads to milk loss, mastitis and premature release of milk. Self-sucking is recorded in 1.5 % of all sucking animals. The incidence of mutual sucking in heifers and cows decreases with age. It is triggered for example by reduced area per animal. Mechanical and surgical methods are available to prevent this behaviour as well as proper housing and feeding technology.
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