Intrapartum risk factors for calf morbidity and mortality in dairy cattle : a systematic review (2000–2025)

The aim of this study was to perform a systematic review of studies published in the last 25 years to determine the influence of calving management (type of calving pen, bedding, frequency of cleaning), birth monitoring, birth induction, and dystocia on calf morbidity and mortality. The following databases were used for research: PubMed, CAB Abstracts, and Web of Science. In total, four studies were included for birth induction, sixteen for calving management, eight for birth monitoring, and twenty for dystocia. All factors included had an influence on perinatal mortality. Calving management and dystocia influenced mortality up to weaning. Severe cases of dystocia raised the risk of mortality from 11.2 to 53.17 and even cases of moderate dystocia led to an increased risk of mortality from 2.04 to 11.6. Passive transfer of immunity was improved by more frequent birth monitoring. Dystocia increased the risk of failure of passive transfer. Good calving management and performing of birth monitoring reduced the risk of morbidity. Dystocia led to a higher risk of morbidity. Dystocia had the greatest influence on the parameters examined. This systematic review provides evidence that intrapartum factors have an influence on calf morbidity and mortality and shows possibilities to improve calf health outcomes.