N. E. Engwall, K. N. Carraway Clemson University Rumination monitoring as a Management tool for early detection of metabolic disorders N. E. Engwall, K. N. Carraway Clemson University
Overview-Rumination Reduce particle size Enhance digestibility Increase saliva Buffer rumen Improve rumen health Happy cows Source: Memorial University
Overview-Metabolic Disorders Ketosis 10-15% all fresh cows Displaced Abomasum 80% within first month lactation Ruminal Acidosis First 60 days in lactation highest risk Source: My Dairy Vet
Rumination Monitoring HR-Tag rumination monitoring system Loggers Readers Software Source: SCR Engineers Ltd
Monitoring for Metabolic Disorders Transition animals Visual Observation vs. Rumination Monitoring Trial validates accuracy Health Report Run tests to narrow down Monitor treatment Source: Progressive Dairy
Progression of Health Reports Source: SCR Engineers Ltd.
Progression of Health Reports Source: SCR Engineers Ltd.
Limitations and Improvements Must be near the reader Proper placement of tag necessary Source: SCR Engineers Ltd.
Limitations and Improvements Large start up costs Not always associated with illness
Summary Rumination monitoring valuable tool HR-Tag replaces visual observer Health Reports detect early signs of disease Save $ with treatments
References Progressive Dairyman SCR Engineering Ltd Journal of Dairy Science “Technical note: Validation of a system for monitoring rumination in dairy cows” (Schirmann et al. 2009) Hoard’s Dairyman
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