A retrospective study of calf mortality in three settled cattle herds in Zaria, Kaduna State

Abstract

A retrospective study of calf mortality and the effect of management on calf mortality in three settled cattle herds in Zaria, covering a period of four years (1990-1995) was conducted using farm records. A very high overall mortality rate of 32.0% considered to be associated with substantial economic losses was obtained. Management was also found to have significant effect on calf mortality (p<0.05). Calf mortality was least in farm A where farm care was by both the owner and hired labour, and milk from cows was reserved for the nutrition of calves. The other farms where care was by only hired labour, and milk from the cows was sold for human consumption had significantly higher calf mortality. It is suggested that a prospective study be conducted to determine the causes of calf mortality in these herds and others in the area as a basis for designing control and preventive strategies against this important condition.

KEY WORDS: Retrospective, calf, mortality, management, settled, cattle, herds, Zaria

Nigerian Veterinary Journal Vol.24(2) 2003: 48-51