A.I.ing of Cattle @ Ficken Angus Ranch (F A R)

I prefer heat checking and A.I.ing animals observed in standing heat, but sometimes it just isn't feasible.  So the following method is what I use.

Day 1, a CIDR is applied vaginally into the heifer or cow. A 2cc shot of Cystorelin should also be administered at this time.

For Cows - On Day 7, the CIDR is removed, a 5cc shot of Lutalyse is injected, and the heat detection patch is applied to the tail head. At this point, cattle can either be heat checked and A.I.ed 12 hours after observing standing heat over a 5 day period, or all cattle can be mass A.I.ed in 60-66 hours after the CIDR is removed.

For Heifers - On Day 7.5, the CIDR is removed, (follow the same steps for Cows above), except Heifers should all be A.I.ed in 52-56 hours after the CIDR is removed. (See - AI Time Line - Showing this detail) 
When A.I.ing cattle, either after a natural heat or synchronized heat, I like to administer 2cc of Cystorelin at time of insemination.

Drug Information

CIDR® - Non-prescription, can be ordered from a variety of online and offline sources.

GnRH - Prescription required. Cystorelin®, Factrel®, Fertagyl®, and OvaCyst® are common brand names.

PG - Prostaglandin. Prescription required. EstroPLAN®, Estrumate®, In-Synch®, Lutalyse®, and ProstaMate® are common brand names.

Disclaimer: Any of your prostaglandin drugs such as Lutalyse and your GnRH drugs like Cystorelin, must be prescribed by a licensed veterinarian, administered according to their label. Any extra-label use of these drugs must first be discussed and approved by a licensed veterinarian.

 Key Points

• Nutrition program so that mature cows calve in a Body Condition Score of 5 and first-calf-heifers in Body Condition Score of 6.
• Nutrition program for replacement heifer such that they reach puberty and begin estrous cycles at least 3 weeks before the start of the breeding season.
• Females must be exhibiting estrous cycles.
• Cows at least 40 to 50 days post-calving.
• Good facilities to restrain and handle cattle.
• 1 cc is equal to 1 ml.