Effects of Slaughter Age and Season on Final Weight and Carcass Characteristics in Holstein-Friesian Cull Cows

Abstract

The objective of this study was to quantify the effects of the factors including age at slaughter and slaughter season on certain carcass characteristics in cull cows. Data from 159 Holstein-Friesian cull cows were used and the cows were divided into three age groups including, very young (<2 years), young (2-3years) and mature (>3years). Statistical analysis was carried out by the least-squares method as applied in a general linear model (GLM). Results indicated that mature cull cows were characterised by higher live weight, carcass weights, and bone content, whereas, young cull cows were characterised by higher carcass dressing values. In addition, autumn was significantly associated with higher live weight, bone content percentage, and processing loss, whereas, summer was associated with higher carcass dressings and chilling loss. No significant differences were observed in values of total meat yield and percentage and yields of valuable cuttings. The present results may be useful for the evaluation of factors influencing the decision to cull dairy cows.

Prediction of carcass weight using the morphometry of ankle bones in hair goats

“…In this regard, calves come to the forefront. During the fattening period, although calves reach almost twice their initial fattening weight, the increase in 1‐year‐olds is 70%, and in 2‐year‐olds, it decreases up to 40%–50% (Ardıclı, 2019 ). The present study showed that hair goat weight gain is important in the first year after birth by comparing the mean values of carcasses of both young and adult goats.…”

“…There is a positive relationship between age and carcass bone ratio. In other words, increase in the age causes an increase in the bone composition of carcass (Ardıclı, 2019 ). In line with the current study's results, it has been identified that ageing leads to an increase in the carcass's bone ratio, consistent with Ardıclı’s research.…”