The optimal time to get mature cows (lactation 3 and greater) pregnant is as early as possible but the results for first-lactation cows, and to a lesser extent second-lactation cows, has varied across herds due to the relative shapes of their lactation curves (i.e., their persistency).
Dairy reproductive efficiency has improved considerably over the last 10 to 20 years due to factors such as improved cow comfort, better nutrition, synchronization programs, sensors/monitors and genetic selection (Figure 1). Simultaneously, milk production has also increased for many of the same reasons, leading some producers to question if they are getting cows pregnant quicker than what is optimal.
Kevin Dhuyvetter February 20, 2023
