PRECISION LIVESTOCK FARMING AND ITS ROLE FOR ASSURING A SUSTAINABLE CATTLE MANAGEMENT- A STUDY CASE ON CONNECTED COW

Precision Livestock Farming (PLF) has emerged to help animal husbandry to become more efficient and sustainable. In this context, the goal of this research study is to describe "Connected Cow" as a groundbreaking evolution moment in cattle management, because PLF technologies are destined to revolutionize traditional practices. For setting up this work, a large range of research studies, technical reports, and industry case studies published between 2010 and 2023 have been used, been carefully selected, logically structured and assessed in a critical manner. The results proved that by utilizing IoT devices, sensors, and data analytics, the connected cow framework enables real-time monitoring of health, behavior, feeding patterns, reproduction, and production. This approach allows for data-driven management decisions, enhancing productivity, improving animal welfare, and reducing environmental impact. This paper delves into the connected cow’s role in shifting cattle management paradigms, offering insights into its operational benefits and challenges, including data integration, cost barriers, and technology adoption. Future advancements in AI and machine learning are also discussed as enablers of predictive and adaptive management solutions. By emphasizing the integration of connectivity and management, the connected cow highlights a transformative path toward sustainable, efficient, and welfare-focused livestock farming.