Reproductive efficiency is a critical factor in maintaining a profitable cow calf farm operation. Pregnancy testing is one method that can be used to monitor reproductive performance and help make appropriate management decisions. 

High feed costs coupled with factors like volatile beef markets and droughts, mean open cattle can be identified and sold to reduce input costs.  In small herds this is important and Kenton county Agriculture and Natural Resources agent recognized these challenges and offered an on-farm demonstration called “Is That Cow Pregnant? Working with local veterinarian and another UK Agent, rectal palpation, ultrasound, and blood test draws were demonstrated on a cow calf herd here in Kenton County.

This field day attracted 32 participants. Based on follow up to these participants, 17 of the participants determined they were going to implement pregnancy testing as part of their herd management.  Six of them now feel confident to do the blood test method and planned to apply as part of their herd health protocols. For three of the participants, they decided to work closer with their veterinarian to ensure healthy cows and increase pregnancy rates in their herd.