Abstract

Growth performance, a critical parameter for assessing cattle productivity, is influenced by genetic, nutritional, and environmental factors. This study systematically analyzed data on the growth traits of Ethiopian cattle breeds, including Birth Weight (BW), Weaning Weight (WW), Yearling Weight (YW), and Pre-Weaning Average Daily Gain (PrWADG). The analysis utilized 213 records from diverse secondary sources, encompassing local and crossbred genetic groups using SAS software. The mean BW was 24.31 ± 3.61 kg, with crossbreds, particularly Simmental crosses, outperforming indigenous breeds due to their dual-purpose characteristics. The mean WW and YW were 90.84 ± 19.97 kg and 134.97 ± 20.50 kg, respectively, with crossbreds again demonstrating superior performance. The PrWADG averaged 405.29 ± 45.00 gram, highlighting the heterosis effect in crossbreeds. Local breeds exhibited lower growth performance but demonstrated resilience to environmental stressors, making them well-suited for harsh conditions. Variations in performance across genetic groups were attributed to differences in management practices, nutrition, and the genetic potential of breeds. This study underscores the importance of crossbreeding as a viable strategy for genetic improvement while emphasizing the need for improved management and feeding practices. Findings provide valuable insights for developing a sustainable national breeding strategy that balances productivity with adaptability in Ethiopian cattle breeds.