Comparison of crossbred and purebred Holstein cows during the transition period

Authors

  • L. G. D. Mendonça Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, 55108
  • N. B. Litherland Department of Animal Sciences, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN 55108
  • M. A. Ballou Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409
  • R. C. Chebel Department of Veterinary Population Medicine, University of Minnesota, Saint Paul, MN, 55108

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20123915

Keywords:

purebred, crossbred, dairy cattle, heterosis, immunity, postparturient, dry matter intake, metabolite

Abstract

Since the early 1900s, scientists have been comparing phenotypic characteristics of purebred and crossbred dairy cows in an attempt to determine the advantages of heterosis. However, the benefit of heterosis on the immune system has not been investigated during the transition period in lactating dairy cows. Innate immunity during the transition period (three weeks pre- to three weeks postpartum) plays a critical role on the postparturient health of dairy cows. The objectives of this study were to compare dry matter intake (DMI), metabolite concentration, innate immunity, and postpartum health of purebred Holstein (HO) and Montbeliarde-sired crossbred (MS) cows.

Cover image of the 45th Conference Proceedings: Three black-and-white cows lounge in a spring field. Yellow background.

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Published

2012-09-20

Issue

2012

Section

Research Summaries 2

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