Evidence for maternal behavior as a requisite link in suckling-mediated anovulation in cows.
Academic Article
Overview
Research
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
Some component of the suckling process inhibits LH secretion and delays postpartum ovulation in beef cows. To investigate a possible role for maternal behavior in suckling-mediated anovulation, 27 crossbred beef cows were randomly allotted to 1 of 3 groups: 1) alien (dam suckled by alien calf; n = 11); 2) own (dam suckled by own calf; n = 8); and 3) weaned (calf removed for 6 days; n = 8). Beginning 14-17 days after parturition (experimental Day 0), cows were control suckled (10 min every 6 h) in stanchions for 6 days by either their own calf or by an alien calf or were weaned. Mean LH pulse frequencies in the alien and weaned groups were similar but were elevated (p < 0.02) on experimental Days 2 and 4 compared to those in the own group. The incidence of luteal activity by experimental Day 10 was greater (p < 0.01) for the alien (72.2%) and weaned groups (75.0%) than for the own group (12.5%). Frequency of oxytocin release following suckling was greater (p < 0.01) in the own group than in the alien group (Day 2: 100% vs. 36.4%; Day 4: 100% vs. 54.6%), whereas suckling-induced release of prolactin was similar for both groups. Data provide evidence that the mother-offspring bond is an important link in suckling-mediated inhibition of LH secretion and ovulation.
