A natural solution to improve cow reproduction
Even without complications, calving weakens the cow’s reproductive system, mucous membranes, and microbiota. During this period, the uterus becomes extremely vulnerable, and studies show that about 90% of cows experience uterine bacterial contamination within 2 weeks of calving. This critical phase is further characterised by a compromised immune system, with significantly reduced neutrophil and macrophage efficiency, impairing the cow’s ability to combat infections effectively.
An inadequate immune response during the first 3 weeks after calving can lead to chronic uterine inflammation. This inflammation disrupts the uterus’ return to a functional state, delays the reproductive cycle returning, and consequently reduces reproductive performance. Often underdiagnosed, it significantly impacts animal welfare and health while also diminishing farm productivity and threatening the sustainability of dairy operations.
Metrabol: A natural solution
To address these challenges and enhance herd sustainability, Techna Natual has developed Metrabol, an innovative solution formulated only with natural ingredients. Metrabol is designed to support and accelerate the reproductive system returning to its functional state after calving.
Presented in bolus form, Metrabol is easy to administer. Its systematic use at calving provides a simple yet effective strategy that offers farmers peace of mind while optimising both technical and economic performance.
Efficacy and economic benefits
Numerous international trials conducted with dairy cows over the past 15 years have demonstrated Metrabol’s effectiveness. The latest trial, presented in December 2024 at the French conference “Rencontres Recherches Ruminants” (Ruminant Research meeting), in collaboration with French insemination cooperative INNOVAL, highlighted the benefits of Metrabol on reproductive performance and economic outcomes in more than 3,000 French farms, involving nearly 40,000 dairy cows.
Administering Metrabol reduced the calving-to-calving interval (CCI) by 1.8 days when used individually, (targeting less than 15% of cows in the herd), and by 6.4 days when applied systematically to the entire herd. Economically, the systematic approach proved to be the most profitable application, generating an estimated gain of € 8.6 per cow, which is 2.5 times higher than the individual use. These findings highlight the value of using Metrabol systematically, even in herds without apparent reproductive issues.
Trials have shown that Metrabol delivers visible improvements during the entire postpartum period. In the first days following calving, its use halves the number of cows suffering from fever. This positive impact on animal health has also been noted by farmers with different farm practices.
Metrabol: More advantages
For cows:
- Improved well-being: Lower temperature linked to reduced uterine inflammation;
- Decrease in antibiotic resistance: Reduced use of antibiotics;
- Optimised reproductive capacity: The reproductive system returns to a functional state faster.
For farmers:
- Greater peace of mind: Less intervention on the cows;
- Greater working comfort: Easy to use and improved heat detection;
- Increased economic performance: + €8.6 per cow (French market calculation).
For breeders:
- Easier management: Simpler than hormone and antibiotic programmes;
- Efficiency: Increased number of pregnant cows;
- Advice: Improved quality of service provided in the context of reproductive monitoring.
References available on request.
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