In the lead up to repro season, it is vital to remember the other key players in your mating success – bulls.
Bull condition should be on target (BCS 6-7) and they should not be suffering from any disease or illness. In addition, all bulls should meet minimum scrotal circumference targets for their age and breed prior to mating.
Other key points to remember about bulls prior to mating:
Ensure high sperm quality:
Have they got adequate magnesium, copper, selenium and zinc levels?
Do they have well developed and sound sexual organs? Bulls over 3 years can suffer with issues such as low libido, locomotion challenges, penile or testicular problems.
Check they have sound eyes.
Ensure they are physically able to breed (don’t have any injuries, ailments or deviations in posture, which can affect biomechanics).
Give all bulls a BVD booster vaccine at least 4 weeks before mating starts. Virgin bulls should be blood tested for BVD virus as well as vaccinated.
Make sure they have had their annual lepto vaccine.
Have some spare bulls on-farm to swap out if one becomes lame or injured.
Treat injured bulls as promptly as possible. Allow them plenty of time to rest and recover.
