The intensification of pasture-based dairy systems subjects the cows to different productive environments. This work evaluated whether metabolic, productive, and reproductive variables were affected by two contrasting facilities used in partial confinement (outdoor soil-bedded vs compost barn) plus grazing and a total confinement system in autumn- and spring-calving cows. Spring outdoor soil-bedded cows presented subclinical ketosis even after 30 days postpartum, possibly being associated with heat stress. Confined cows presented greater milk production but a delayed resumption of ovarian cyclicity.

Normal physiological stages such as breeding, pregnancy, parturition, and lactation can cause oxidative stress, which may impair female reproductive performance. We examined the effects of β-carotene supplementation and age on the oxidative status and reproduction performance of grazing ewes during these stages. The study concluded that supplemental β-carotene at ≥75 mg/day may act as a pro-oxidant during parturition. However, this effect does not appear to manifest in lower survival or additional stress for the ewe and lamb.