Oxytocin levels in dairy cows before and after using a mechanical brush

The aim of this study was to investigate if plasma oxytocin is influenced in cows when they are allowed to self-groom using a mechanical rotating brush. Additionally we assessed the relationship between oxytocin levels and the specific body regions the cows chose to brush. The study involved twelve catheterised non-lactating cows, where three blood samples were collected before and three after brushing. Each cow was moved to a test area and brushing behaviour was observed during the brush period when the cow was given access to a brush area. Data analysis utilized a linear mixed model to compare oxytocin levels between sample points and Spearman rank tests to explore possible correlations between brushing behaviour and the change in oxytocin following brushing.