10 Benefits of Fleckvieh

#1. Flat lactation curves.

The benefit here is that the stress on the udder is less. This adds to longevity since the udder does not become subject to damage from the high volume of milk produced in the early lactation. Early spikes in milk production and then a drop off as seen traditionally creates more of a demand for a precise feeding regime to avoid metabolic diseases such as ketosis also.

#2. Milk and beef of high quality.

High component milk along with good quality beef nets more income for the producer. Slaughter results from steers that were placed into feedlot yield high. They finish out at 18 to 22 months of age comparable to a beef only breed.

#3. Higher calf prices.

In Europe and North America higher prices for calves are common place due to better health and growth rates. Steer calves can enter a feedlot and create another income stream for growers. Because the cows produce more calves (based on improved longevity) , replacement heifers can be sold also.

#4. Lower somatic cell counts.

One of the great benefits in crossbreeding and absorption crossing is the benefit of reduced somatic cell counts. Positive changes can be made with crossbreeding to reduce the impact of elevated somatic cell counts.

#5. Milk components.

Consistently, crossbreeding results in better components. Increases of 0.2 to 0.4 are seen in both butter fat and protein levels.

#6. Excellent fertility.

Reductions in numbers of inseminations required to reach pregnancy are seen. This leads to a reduction in workload, easier breeding management, reduced intercalving periods and improved overall reproductive efficiency.

#7. Long production life.

Due to better conformation – by way of stronger feet and legs and greater tolerance to production of milk with the resource of more muscle mass and a stronger skeleton these animals can live longer healthy lives. A thicker skin literally provides more tolerance to weather conditions whether it is cold or hot weather. In hot weather – better circulation actually keeps the body temperature 1 to 2 C lower than traditionally thinner skinned “dairy type” cows.

#8. Less replacement costs.

If each lactating cow can produce four calves in her life or more as in many cases, she can replace herself and there is no need to purchase replacement animals. The benefit is that the farmer can keep a closed herd which reduces cost, and potential introduction of disease from purchased animals. Furthermore, targeted breeding and genetic plans can be made to create the best herd for the particular farm.

#9. Less LDA.

Overall incidence rates of distended abomasum decrease since the animals can tolerate the impact of calving and milk production better than traditional “dairy type” breeds. This cuts our veterinary visits, postsurgical care and reduced performance.

#10. Strong “easy handling” cows.

The breed FV is known for gentle easy handling animals that have a mind mainly to eat and produce.