Which is a potential effect of rBGH on dairy cattle?

Which is a potential effect of rBGH on dairy cattle?

• A. Increased bone density.
• B. Joint problems and udder infections.
• C. Reduced milk production.
• D. Faster calf growth.

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is how a milk-production stimulant can affect dairy cows beyond just yield. rBGH raises milk output by boosting factors that drive mammary gland activity, which increases the workload on the udder and the cow overall. That extra pressure and exposure can raise the risk of mastitis (udder infections) and joint problems, since the animal is under more physiological stress to sustain higher production. So this option reflects a plausible animal-health consequence of rBGH use. Increased bone density isn’t a typical direct effect, and reduced milk production would go against the purpose of using rBGH. Faster calf growth isn’t a primary, well-supported outcome of the hormone’s use in dairy cows.

The idea being tested is how a milk-production stimulant can affect dairy cows beyond just yield. rBGH raises milk output by boosting factors that drive mammary gland activity, which increases the workload on the udder and the cow overall. That extra pressure and exposure can raise the risk of mastitis (udder infections) and joint problems, since the animal is under more physiological stress to sustain higher production.

So this option reflects a plausible animal-health consequence of rBGH use. Increased bone density isn’t a typical direct effect, and reduced milk production would go against the purpose of using rBGH. Faster calf growth isn’t a primary, well-supported outcome of the hormone’s use in dairy cows.