Effect of Intraruminal Monensin Capsules on Reproductive Performance and Milk Production of Dairy Cows Fed Pasture

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Abstract
Cows from three herds calving in spring that were fed on pasture were paired by herd, production index, predicted calving date, and age. One cow from each pair was allocated randomly to the treatment group and received a controlled-release capsule of monensin 1 mo prior to the start of AI. A random sample of 20 matched pairs of cows was selected within each herd to monitor BW and metabolic parameters. Treated cows produced more fat, protein, and liters of milk per day during the 2nd mo of monensin activity and produced a greater total milk volume than did control cows. Treated cows gained less BW during the 1st mo after treatment. No significant differences were identified in submission rates, overall pregnancy rates, or pregnancy rate to first or second AI. Blood urea nitrogen was elevated in the treatment group as a main effect, and NEFA were elevated in the 2nd and 3rd mo after treatment. There was no significant effect on blood concentrations of glucose, albumin, or BHBA.