An investigation into temperament, production, and their physical indicators in Bos taurus beef and Holstein dairy cattle

Abstract

The objective of these research studies was to examine the relationships, in cattle, for productivity and temperament, temperament and physical indicators (attributes) and, productivity and physical indicators. Physical attributes examined were facial hair whorl characteristics, and cannon bone measurements. Three separate groups of cattle were used to evaluate the possible relationships. The first group studied were cows at a small Holstein dairy. A simple method to determine the temperament of dairy cows, without interfering with the operation of a commercial dairy, was developed. The second group studied were feedlot heifers that were simultaneously involved in a vitamin D3 study. The third group studied were cattle being sold in auctions. Temperament tests conducted were: 1) dairy cattle reaction to a looming person, 2) force required to move the heifer into a squeeze chute, activity level during restraint, and exit speed from the squeeze chute, and 3) activity level and startle response to intermittent stimuli of auction cattle. Production measures were I) heifer carcass characteristics, and Warner-Bratzler shear force values of steaks, and 2) dairy cow milk production. Physical attributes investigated for all three groups of cattle were location and morphology of facial hair whorls. Heifer cannon bone measurements were also recorded. Results indicated that there was an association between physical characteristics, temperament and productivity of heifer feedlot and dairy cattle. Differences in facial hair whorls were associated with temperament, milk protein yield, and showed an indication of a relationship with longevity in this dairy herd. Cannon bone measurements were related to temperament and to carcass characteristics and temperament was related to carcass characteristics. Activity level of individual cattle at auction markets was associated with startle response. Animals that were the most active were more easily startled by an intermittent sound, motion, or touch than were those cattle that had lower activity levels. Management decisions based on an understanding of the interrelatedness of temperament, physical attributes, and animal productivity will assist producers in achieving generation of a consistent and desirable product, improved animal welfare, and greater profitability.