Factors Influencing Fertility of Holstein Dairy Cows: A Multivariate Description

Eighty-two multiparous cows of high and low genetic merit were fed one of two isonitrogenous (19.3% crude protein), isoenergetic (11.3 MJ of metabolizable energy) diets that differed in ratio of rumen-undegradable protein to rumen-degradable protein. Factors that influenced reproductive performance were investigated using logistic regression and survival analysis. Significant associations were identified between reproductive performance and indicators associated with nutrient balance. Cows with higher dry matter intake were more likely to show signs of estrus at first ovulation and to become pregnant by d 150 of lactation. Increased ratio of plasma glucose to 3-hydroxybutyrate was associated with a greater probability of estrous expression at first ovulation. Concentrations of plasma cholesterol were positively associated with expression of estrus at first ovulation, interval from calving to conception, and likelihood of conception and pregnancy. Greater concentrations of nonesterified fatty acids in plasma were associated with a lower probability of conception by d 150 of lactation. Increased yield of fat-corrected milk during early lactation was negatively associated with expression of estrus at first ovulation and probability of pregnancy by d 150 of lactation. Cows of high genetic merit were less likely to show signs of estrus at first ovulation. Cows fed the high rumen-degradable-protein diet that also lost more body weight during early lactation were less likely to conceive at first service and to have a prolonged interval from calving to conception. Continued selection for increased production of milk and a more negative nutrient balance during early lactation may reduce reproductive performance particularly for cows fed high concentrations of rumen-degradable protein.