Pegbovigrastim use in periparturient embryo-recipient cows: Effects on health and reproduction

Abstract

Graphical Abstract Summary: Metritis is a common disease in dairy cows during the postpartum period and is associated with immune system impairment. Embryo-recipient cows are reported to have delayed parturition and are at a higher risk for retained fetal membranes and metritis. This study evaluated the effects of pegbovigrastim (PEG), an immunomodulator, on health and reproductive outcomes in 60 embryo-recipient Jersey cows induced to calve at 280 d of pregnancy. Animals were assigned to PEG-treated or untreated control groups. Cows treated with PEG tended to have a higher incidence of metritis by 20 DIM. No treatment effect was observed on postpartum disease incidence, culling rates, or reproductive outcomes.