Authors : I.U. Ate , P.I. Rekwot , A.J. Nok and L.B. Tekdek
Abstract: A study was conducted to evaluate the economic losses associated with reproductive disorders of cows in settled cattle herds in Zaria. The overall financial losses due to reproductive disorders in 176 cows studied using the farm gate prices were significant especially if the losses are assessed on the entire national cattle population. Out of these losses, the direct losses accounted for 59.2%, while the indirect losses accounted for 40.8%. Brucellosis and milk loss constituted the greatest components of the direct losses while man-hour spent by herd owners was the greatest component of the indirect losses. Vulval lacerations, teat injuries, subclinical and clinical mastitis, calf diarrhea, respiratory infection, dermatitis and coccidiosis also contributed significantly to the indirect losses. The psychological effects due to these disorders as well as the health implication of brucellosis in exposed population could not be computed. It is suggested that the study be further conducted on a larger scale, both regionally and nationally and that efforts should be made towards the control of reproductive disorders in settled cattle herds in the area and Nigeria in general.
I.U. Ate , P.I. Rekwot , A.J. Nok and L.B. Tekdek , 2007. Economic Losses Associated with Reproductive Disorders of Cows in Settled Cattle Herds in Zaria, Nigeria. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 6: 867-871.