EFFECT OF PREGNANCY ON BODY HAIR GROWTH IN DAIRY CATTLE
January 2012
in “
Charles Sturt University Research Output (CRO)
”
The study investigated the effect of pregnancy on body hair growth in Holstein Friesian dairy cattle, using three early pregnant and two post-parturition cows. Hair samples from the neck, thoracic, and back areas were collected twice a week over two months to measure hair weight and diameter. Results showed an increase in hair diameter and weight as pregnancy progressed, with a decrease in hair weight after parturition. A consistent increase in diameter and weight along individual fibers from tip to end was noted in pregnant cows, with a significant correlation between hair fiber diameter and weight. The study concluded that pregnancy status affected hair growth in dairy cattle.