Authors : Nadine Kabasingiza, Gilbert Mutoni and Mupenzi Mutimura
Abstract: Body Condition Score (BCS) is a very important management tool in livestock particularly because of its association with health, reproduction and production performances in cattle. However, there is a little information on Body Condition Score (BCS) of Ankole cattle and their effect on reproduction, production and longevity. The objective of the study was to evaluate body condition score and its influence on production and reproduction performances as well as health status of Ankole cows in Nyagat are district of Rwanda. Based on the sampling frame, 60 Ankole cattle were evaluated and primary data were collected through visual, touch and feel on the external part of the body while the existing records were used as secondary data. Results showed that BCS had an influence on longevity, disease prevalence, physical appearance, production and reproduction performances in Ankole cows. High percentage (25%) of Ankole cows had a body condition score of three. These cows had normal reproduction performance compared to the rest of cows. The healthiest cows were found to be in the BCS of 3-5. This means that better BSC for disease prevalence was$3. It is suggested that farmers should use the BCS as a management tool to improved productivity of Ankole cows.
Nadine Kabasingiza, Gilbert Mutoni and Mupenzi Mutimura, 2020. Evaluation of Body Condition Score in Ankole Cattle in Nyagatare District of Rwanda. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 19: 43-46.