To help with your next beef cattle synchronization project, GENEX has compiled answers to the most frequently asked questions.
What is the best synchronization protocol for cows and heifers?
There isn't an easy answer to this question. Research does suggest some protocols perform better than others, but just because research says it's the best protocol doesn't necessarily make it the best protocol for your operation.
Instead, ask yourself these three questions before choosing a synchronization protocol:
» How many times am I willing to put the female through the chute?
» How much am I willing to spend on synchronization drugs?
» What are my expectations for results?
Once you know the answers to these questions you can objectively analyze which synchronization program best fits your operation. No matter what the research or experts tell you, the best protocol for your operation is one that aligns with your goals and one you are 100% confident you can perform perfectly from start to finish.
What criteria should be used to ensure females are good candidates for A.I.?
The answer depends if you are synchronizing heifers or cows.
Criteria for synchronizing heifers:
» Should have achieved at least 65% of mature body weight
» Minimum of 50% should have a reproductive tract score of ≥ 4 at six weeks before breeding
If you don't have a veterinarian in your area that offers reproductive tract scoring, don't panic! You can achieve the same thing by visually observing your heifers for heat in the weeks and months leading up to breeding. You want to observe that at least 50% of heifers are cycling six weeks prior to breeding.
Criteria for synchronizing cows:
» Body Condition Score of ≥ 5 at calving
» An average postpartum interval of ≥ 40 days at the beginning of the protocol
» A minimum of 21 days postpartum at the time of Eazi-Breed™ CIDR® insertion
» Low incidence of calving difficulty
Where is the best place to give synchronization injections? What needle size should be used?
Synchronization drugs should be given in the muscle (IM), with the exception of LUTALYSE® Hi-Con which can be administered IM or subcutaneously. When administering synchronization drugs, it is recommended to use a 1-1/2 inch, 18-gauge needle. You should also wear gloves when handling synchronization drugs to avoid contact with skin.
Can CIDR® inserts be reused?
CIDR® inserts are labeled as a one-time use item by the manufacturer, and it is recommended that you follow this guideline. CIDR® inserts can be one of the most expensive parts of a synchronization protocol (retailing at $10 to $12) and it is tempting to cut that cost in half by using it a second time, however if tempted ask yourself what another A.I. calf is worth. It’s likely a lot more than $5 to $6.
Can vaccines/dewormer be given while the female is in the chute for a CIDR®?
Your pre-breeding vaccination program is an important part of an overall successful A.I. program. However, several studies have shown injection of naïve heifers with a modified live vaccine (MLV) around the time of breeding result in ovarian lesions and decreased pregnancy rates. Therefore, it is recommended that you give all pre-breeding vaccinations at least 30 days prior to breeding.
While there isn't any research that suggests administering dewormer at breeding will have a negative impact on fertility, plan to do that at least 30 days prior to breeding as well. The less stress you put on females around breeding time, the better your success. To achieve optimal results, it's best to do as little as possible to the females during the synchronization and breeding process.
When after insemination can cows be moved?
The most critical time for embryonic development occurs between day five (when the embryo begins migrating from the oviduct to the uterus) and day 42 (when the embryo has made definitive attachment to the uterus). Research indicates shipping your cows during this critical time can cause a 10% decrease in pregnancy rates. The best time to move cattle is prior to insemination or days one to four post-breeding. If you can't move them within this time period, it's best to wait until after day 45.
Despite what research might say, no single synchronization protocol fits every operation. Know your operation, follow the suggestions above and trust your gut. And, if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact your local GENEX representative.