MDC estimate the UK fertility cost to be over £140/cow in an average performing herd. This is equivalent to 2 pence per litre. Further analysis shows that the declining pregnancy rate is almost entirely due to increases in early embryonic loss.
15 years ago when milk yields were lower about 25% of embryos were lost, now the loss is 40%, but in very high yielding herds up to 60% of embryos are lost. Early embryo loss is therefore the single biggest reason for the increase in dairy cow infertility.
There are many factors that increase embryo loss. Reproductive diseases, bacterial infections (mastitis and lameness), acidosis and heat stress all increase the production of prostaglandin F2a which is toxic to the embryo and makes embryo loss more likely. Prostaglandin F2a is also increased by feeding too little Omega-3 and too much Omega-6 fatty acids. Omega-6 fatty acids are present in most of the feeds currently available to dairy farmers. The important Omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA are only found in oily fish, and salmon oil (which is one constituent of Opti-Mate) is one of the best sources of these fatty acids.
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| Four major benefits of using Opti-Mate |
Reduces embryo loss
Omega-3 LCPs in Opti~Mate reduce early embryo loss by balancing prostaglandin production. Pregnancy rates are substantially increased.
Boosts bulling activity
Opti~Mate reduces silent heats and strengthens bulling activity for results you can see
Improves liver function
Opti~Mate boosts liver metabolism to improve early lactation energy supply and milk production
Increases bank balance
Opti~Mate reduces the |
hidden costs of infertility and reduces culling rates
Result – around 15 days off your calving interval
Result – tighter calving pattern
Result – typically +2 litres/day peak milk yield
Result – worth around +1p/litre |
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