Impact of Farm Management and Trace Mineral Status on Infertility in Dairy Cattle in Khartoum State, Sudan

Infertility in dairy cattle is a critical issue that undermines productivity and profitability, often resulting from poor management practices, inadequate nutrition, insufficient veterinary care, and trace mineral deficiencies. In Sudan, particularly in urban dairy farming areas such as Khartoum, Bahri, and Omdurman, milk production represents a key livelihood source, yet limited studies have examined the contribution of management practices and mineral imbalances to infertility. This study investigated the relationship between farm management, trace mineral levels, and infertility in dairy cows across these regions, focusing on 800 animals from different farms. Data were gathered through farm visits, farmer interviews, and direct observations of herd management, including herd size, cow age, number of calvings, feeding and hygiene routines, vaccination coverage, and veterinary supervision. Blood samples were collected from infertile cows for biochemical analysis of trace minerals including copper, cobalt, zinc, phosphorus, and iodine. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare differences among the three localities. Results indicated no significant differences in herd size, cow age, farm area, or calving numbers per cow, though vaccination rates varied significantly, with the highest coverage in Khartoum and the lowest in Bahri (p = 0.01). Hygiene practices, tick control, and veterinary supervision differed slightly but without statistical significance, while Bahri exhibited more dietary diversity without a significant effect. Reproductive health assessment showed higher early and late abortion rates in Bahri, though not statistically significant. Mineral analysis revealed significant differences in copper and cobalt, with copper levels highest and cobalt lowest in Bahri (p < 0.001 and p = 0.003, respectively), while zinc, phosphorus, and iodine showed no significant variation. The findings suggest that infertility in dairy cows is associated with both management practices and mineral imbalances, particularly the elevated copper and reduced cobalt levels observed in Bahri. Strengthening nutrition, ensuring adequate mineral supplementation, and improving vaccination and veterinary care are recommended to mitigate infertility and enhance dairy farm productivity in urban Sudan.