Nutrition: Its role in reproductive functioning of cattle-a review

Received: 21/11/2013 Revised: 19/12/12013 Accepted: 20/12/2013 Abstract The relationship between nutrition and reproduction is a topic of increasing importance and concern among dairy producers, veterinarians, feed dealers and extension workers. Nutritional deficiencies cause various reproductive problems. Therefore, the recommendation has been made to feed the cows for top production. Then, the nutrient requirements for reproduction will be adequately met. Animal scientists have made considerable progress during the past years in finding and managing the factors that contribute to the efficient reproduction in domestic animals. Deficiencies of various trace minerals, inadequate vitamin intakes, energy, protein imbalances and excessive protein intakes are mentioned as contributors to infertility and poor reproductive performance. Progress in improving the fertility of domestic animals has been achieved by studying genetic, nutritional, endocrine, disease and managemental factors as they contribute to both fertilization failure and embryo mortality. It has been seen that cessation of estrus with suppression of ovulation or ovulation without estrus result from sub maintenance of feeding. Another important effect of under-nutrition is more number of services per conception which reduces the production level of animal. This paper provides some of the available information regarding relation of nutrition with reproduction of animals.