Rare hormone condition sparks scientific intrigue in India’s agribusiness sector.
A remarkable and scientifically intriguing case has emerged from Mandya, Karnataka, India, where a five-year-old Jersey cow belonging to farmer Kempegowda has begun yielding milk despite not having calved in the past three years. This extraordinary occurrence, which defies the typical biological process of lactation, has captured the attention of both the local dairy community and veterinary scientists, highlighting a rare phenomenon within dairy animal physiology.
The cow’s owner confirmed that the animal had dried off after its last lactation cycle, following its previous calving three years prior. Unexpectedly, the cow commenced producing milk again, prompting an investigation by veterinary experts from the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal, and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU). This spontaneous lactation without the trigger of pregnancy and parturition makes the case exceptionally rare, presenting a unique subject of study in animal husbandry.
Following thorough examination, veterinary doctors diagnosed the cow with a rare hormonal imbalance. Specifically, the condition is attributed to a dysfunction in the pituitary gland, which is responsible for secreting lactogenic hormones, primarily prolactin. This hormonal anomaly is causing the cow to lactate without the physiological stimulus of a new pregnancy and subsequent birth, a natural event known as “spontaneous lactation” when it occurs without external hormonal induction.
Currently, the cow is reportedly producing approximately 2-3 litres of milk per day. Experts have affirmed that the milk derived from this cow is entirely safe for human consumption, allaying any public concerns regarding its quality or safety. This assurance is crucial for maintaining consumer confidence in dairy products and supports the continued economic viability for dairy farmers in the region, even under unusual circumstances.
This unusual case in Mandya has garnered significant interest, not just within India’s agribusiness and scientific communities, but potentially for broader dairy economics discussions globally. It underscores the complex interplay of hormones in lactation and provides a valuable, albeit rare, instance for research into alternative methods of milk production or understanding genetic predispositions. The “Mandya cow” has truly become a scientific marvel, prompting renewed focus on the intricate biological processes governing milk yield.
Source: Udayavani: Mandya cow gives milk without calving due to rare hormone condition
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