Problems of livestock reproduction with a focus on climate change

Abstract

Decreasing yields and plant nutrient value as a natural fodder base for livestock, favourable environment for the pathogenic bacteria developing and spreading, as well as the direct effect of high temperatures on animal welfare are the causes of significant losses in livestock worldwide associated with climate change (Laporta et al 2020). On the other hand, long-term selection for high milk yield has led to limited oestrus in modern dairy cattle compared to the animals studied by researchers 40 years ago (Sheldon et al 2011). As many as half of the cows cannot produce the first dominant follicle in the postpartum period, numerous animals have abnormal oestrus with anovulatory anoestrus, cystic ovarian disease, or prolonged luteal phase, primarily due to various stressors (Lees et al. 2019). This requires comprehension of the current state of the problem and possible mitigation strategies. With this importance in mind, this mini-review article aimed at lighting the harmful effects of high temperatures on the reproductive function of animals and possible mitigation options.