Reproductive status of beef cows after foot and mouth disease (FMD) in East Java

The spread of Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) has significantly declined in the population. FMD is an infectious disease that is susceptible to even-toed ungulates. This study examines beef cattle’s post-FMD reproductive performance in East Java, Indonesia. The implementation of the research was carried out from July to August 2023 in East Java Province. Conducted from July to August 2023, the study utilized quantitative methods with a survey-based approach, purposive sampling, and a combination of primary and secondary data collection. The rapid transmission of FMD has caused substantial economic losses. Key research parameters included the type of beef cattle, vaccination history, return to estrus, recovery duration from FMD, pregnancy rates, age, body condition score (BCS), feed types, and reproductive disorders post-FMD. Results showed that cattle breeds affected ranged from 3% to 49%, recovery duration varied from 12% to 58%, and vaccination coverage was between 16% and 33%. The return to estrus occurred in 16% to 44% of cattle, with pregnancy rates between 30% and 70%. Cattle age ranged from 24% to 76%, BCS ranged from 6% to 64%, and feed type varied from 7% to 57%. Regarding reproductive disorders, 56% of cows showed no issues, while 21% exhibited ovarian hypofunction, 12% had endometritis, 4% faced delayed puberty, 3% had follicular cysts, and 1% suffered from placental retention or atrophy. The reproductive performance of post-FMD beef cattle in East Java was generally favorable, though some challenges persisted. A prolonged estrus cycle, likely caused by extended recovery periods and reduced feed intake during FMD infection, led to decreased BCS and hormone imbalances. In addition to health impacts, FMD led to lower farmer incomes, inhibited growth in heifers, and reduced employment opportunities in the livestock sector.