Mkulima today I have received a question from one of our readers Mr. Mwangi from Nakuru, Kenya asking how to time artificial insemination in dairy farming.

Dear MkulimaTODAY, it is my first time doing artificial insemination but I don’t know the right time to serve my cows. Kindly help.

Regards Mwangi.

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To answer the above question I have written this short article to help other farmers like Mr. Mwangi and anyone who is interested in joining dairy farming or the use of artificial insemination.

If you observe your cow on the heat before 6 am that means it should be inseminated on that same day but if it shows a sign after 6 am it means the cow should be served the following day.

Advantages of artificial insemination

  • It is the only form of mating that allows efficient control of venereal diseases.
  • Most economical, it eliminates the purchase and maintenance expenses of a bull
  • Most efficient in cattle management since one bull serve 500-8- progeny annually
  • Adequate progeny is procreated
  • It necessitates record keeping and a high level of managing
  • Proven bulls have their semen used worldwide
  • Semen can be store for years even if the bull is dead

Disadvantages

  • Venereal disease can be spread rapidly
  • An undesirable trait is passed to progeny
  • The possibilities of inbreeding are higher as compared to natural serving
  • Ensure you follow the serving times as required; This boosts productivity and helps in planning the farm.

Having an agribusiness question? Do you know of a successful agribusiness venture or story that you wish to share? I would like to hear from you. Send me the TIP(s) at mkulimatoday@gmail.com

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