The effect of crude protein and energy on conception of dairy cow: a review

Abstract

In Africa, the livestock industry faces low productivity and reproduction due to poor nutrition, animal diseases, and low-yielding indigenous breeds. Nutrition significantly affects the reproductive success of dairy cows and thus reduces profitability. Modern dairy cows produce high levels of milk because of genetic improvements. However, reproductive performance is negatively affected by poor nutrition. Prolonged and inadequate protein and energy intakes can reduce the reproductive performance of dairy cows. A negative energy balance is a key factor affecting reproductive performance, and long-term low energy intake significantly affects the reproductive performance of cows. Restricting energy intake can increase the duration of postpartum anestrus and decrease the pregnancy rate. A diet with limited crude protein can also hinder microbial growth and fermentation, leading to decreased feed intake, milk production, and reproductive performance in cows. However, high dietary crude protein levels can result in elevated levels of ammonia and urea in the blood, which can affect steroid hormones, sperm, and ova, impairing oocytes, fertility, and embryonic development. In addition, overfeeding or underfeeding lactating dairy cows is economically and practically unwise, despite their potential effects on reproductive performance. Therefore, ensuring an optimal dietary protein and energy ratio results in a greater proportion of enhanced conception rates in cows.