Dairy Cattle Behaviour Flashcards
What is the primary focus of the Dairy Code released in 2023?
The Code applies to dairy cattle on dairy farms, including bull calves and bulls.
What organization is responsible for the Dairy Codes?
National Farm Animal Care Council (NFACC), based in Edmonton, AB.
What was the first example of NFACC’s code development process?
The 2009 Dairy Code.
When was the updated Dairy Code released?
March 30, 2023.
When will the new Dairy Code come into effect?
April 1, 2024.
What are the key issues identified by the Scientific Committee in the 2020 report?
- Lameness
- Calf health & welfare
- Surgical interventions
- Feed management
- Facility design
What is the purpose of the Dairy Farmers of Canada’s ‘proAction’ program?
To develop a farm audit program based on the Code.
Who conducts the audits for the proAction program?
Third-party auditor: Holstein Canada.
What types of measures are used in animal welfare audits?
- System Based
- Animal Based (ABM)
What is one of the most serious animal welfare issues affecting dairy cattle?
Lameness.
What are the requirements regarding lameness in the 2023 Code?
- Regular observation for signs of lameness
- Set thresholds for lameness occurrence
What flooring material showed improved gait in lame cows according to research?
Rubber flooring.
How does cow comfort relate to milk production?
Increased lying time correlates with increased milk production.
What bedding type is associated with fewer hock lesions?
Sand bedding.
According to the Code, are cows required to have access to pasture?
Yes, cattle are naturally motivated to access pasture and graze.
What was the result of the UK study regarding cows’ preference for pasture versus indoor housing?
Cows chose indoors 2x more than pasture.
What are the requirements for calf housing in the 2023 Code?
- Must allow calves to stand, lie down, turn around
- Visual contact with other calves
- Not tethered indoors
What cognitive benefit is associated with early social housing of calves?
Improved cognitive development.
What was the outcome of the reversal task in the calf cognition study?
Individually housed calves performed more poorly.
What is dystocia?
Dystocia refers to difficult or abnormal labor during calving.
Which province produces the most milk in Canada?
Quebec.
Which cows are more prone to ketosis?
Thin cows.
Can dairy calves be left on their dams?
Yes, but practices vary.
What is the concern of consumers regarding dairy practices?
Animal welfare and treatment practices.
