Development of a Standing detection device with FRID for control of cattle defecation.

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The goal of the research is "Training of eliminative behavior of cattle". We are challenging to decrease cattle defecation on deep litter in a loose housing barn. We tested the new standing detection device with FRID and the automatic feeding station (FS) which connected a PC to control cattle behavior.1.Development of new standing detection device with FRIDWe changed the sensor in the device to an inclination switch form a mercury switch that used in a former experiment. The all-in-one program for control whole devices in the system was almost completed up to a practical level.2.Experiment of cattle in group feeding.(1)Animals and facility : Three experiments were carried out in two years. Six Holstein heifers were grouped together in an experimental paddock in each experiment. A standing detection device was also attached to each heifer's left hind leg.(2)Exp.1 : The heifers were allowed to obtain the concentrate when they visited the FS within a limited time ( 60min, 30min, 10min, 5min ) after standing up. Results : The number of instance of defecation in bedding area decreased significantly (P<0.05) during FS was used. However, the effects of limited time were not cleared.(3)Exp.2 : Two limited time of 60min and 10min were compared. Results : The number of instance of defecation in bedding area decreased during the 60min period significantly (P<0.05) than the 10min period.(4)Exp.3 : Two treatments were compared. During the "One standing one feeding" period, the heifers were allowed to obtain the concentrate at the FS once at each standing. During the "Interval feeding" period, the heifers were allowed to obtain the concentrate at the FS once each 6h. Results : The number of instance of defecation in front of FS remarkably increased during "One standing one feeding" period then "Interval feeding" period.