Peripartum and postpartum reproductive and neonatal traits of Kangayam cattle, a native cattle breed of Tamil Nadu, India

M. Prabhu

doi:10.56093/ijans.v96i5.179352

Authors

M. Prabhu Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University

https://doi.org/10.56093/ijans.v96i5.179352

Keywords:

Kangayam cattle, Peripartum, Postpartum, Birth weight

Abstract

Kangayam cattle, an important indigenous breed of Tamil Nadu, are well recognized for their superior draught ability and cultural significance in events such as Jallikkattu. The present study was conducted over a period of seven years (2019–2026) at the Kangayam Cattle Research Station, Sathyamangalam, with the objective of evaluating key parturient, postpartum, and neonatal parameters in Kangayam cattle. A total of 43 prepartum Kangayam cows maintained under a semi-intensive system of management with balanced nutrition were included in the study. During the study period, 125 calves were born without any complications during parturition. Various parameters were systematically recorded and analyzed, including gestation length, duration of delivery, time taken for expulsion of fetal membranes, weight of fetal membranes, postpartum dam weight, calf birth weight, and neonatal behavioural traits such as time to stand and initiate colostrum suckling. The mean gestation length was 290.07 ± 2.59 days. The average time taken for delivery following rupture of the water bag was 54.43 ± 3.73 minutes, while the time required for expulsion of the fetal membranes was 181.70 ± 5.69 minutes. The mean weight of the fetal membranes was 2.75 ± 0.05 kg, and the average postpartum dam weight was 292.44 ± 3.28 kg. The mean birth weight of calves was 21.08 ± 0.23 kg. Regarding neonatal behavior, the time taken for calves to stand was found to be 15-60 minutes and the average time taken to initiate colostrum suckling was 50.88 ± 3.56 minutes. The findings of this study provide baseline data on parturient and neonatal characteristics in Kangayam cattle, which can be useful for improving management practices, enhancing calf survival, and supporting conservation and breeding strategies for this valuable indigenous breed.

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