Effect of dummy calf, weaning and suckling on the reproductive performance of post-partum Murrah buffaloes

Abstract

Present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of using dummy calf, weaning at birth and suckling on post-partum reproductive performance of Murrah buffaloes. In all 24 Murrah buffaloes in their first to fifth parity were selected and divided into three equal groups as weaned (W), suckled (S) and dummy calf used (D) buffaloes having 8 animals in each group. Results of present study revealed that weaned and dummy calf used buffalo group have shown significant (P<0.05) improvement in their post-partum reproductive performance as compared to suckled group. Average days to exhibit first post-partum estrus in weaned, dummy calf used and suckled group were 55.63±2.47, 56.50±2.26 and 70.50±3.72 days respectively. Similarly average days to first service, service period and number of services per conception were also significantly (P<0.05) lower in weaned and dummy calf used buffalo group as compared to suckled group.