Repeat breeding in livestock: Multifactorial causes and reproductive management approaches

Abstract

One of the main causes of lower farm output and reproductive efficiency in livestock is repeat breeding, a reproductive disease. The failure of female animals to become pregnant after multiple reproductive services, even when they continue to display seemingly normal estrous cycles and lack clinically noticeable reproductive defects, is typically the hallmark of this illness. In addition to lower conception rates, the ensuing effects include higher insemination rates, longer calving intervals, higher production expenses, and worse overall economic performance. A complex interplay of physiological, pathological, dietary, environmental, and management factors results in repeat breeding, a multifactorial disorder. Individual animal traits, endocrine and hormonal illnesses, anomalies of the reproductive tract, dietary imbalances, viral infections, and inadequate reproductive management techniques are some of the variables that have been linked to this syndrome. The underlying pathophysiological mechanisms might manifest at many phases of reproduction, such as poor follicular development, inadequate fertilization, a lower-quality uterine environment, failure of embryo development, and early pregnancy maintenance. With a focus on normal reproductive physiology, definition and classification, etiology and risk factors, pathophysiological mechanisms, diagnostic techniques, prevention and control strategies, and recent research advancements, this review article sought to give a thorough overview of the concept of repeat breeding. It is anticipated that a greater comprehension of the principles underpinning repeat breeding will aid in the creation of more successful reproductive techniques to raise livestock production systems' sustainability and reproductive efficiency.