Evaluation of a pedometer system for prediction of estrus and parturition in dairy cows housed in a tie-stall barn
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Abstract
Physiological changes associated with estrus and parturition in dairy cows are manifested by changes in activity and behaviour. Accurate and timely detection of cows in estrus and those approaching parturition is very important. The research objective was to determine the efficiency of the Afimilk pedometer system to facilitate the prediction of estrus and parturition through activity changes, in dairy cows continuously-housed in tie-stalls. The Afimilk pedometer system was first validated against simultaneous video recordings. Two studies were then conducted to determine if pedometers could predict estrus and parturition in dairy cows continuously- housed in tie-stalls. Afimilk pedometers were accurate in monitoring steps, lying bout frequency, and duration of lying. However, due to minimal activity change during estrus and high variability in prepartum activity, the Afimilk pedometers did not facilitate the accurate prediction of estrus or parturition, in the studied dairy cows continuously-housed in tie-stalls.