GEA Announced Acquisition of CattleEye

GEA Farm Technologies has expanded its array of solutions for dairy farms by acquiring Northern Ireland-based agricultural software company CattleEye Ltd. This move introduces an artificial intelligence system to GEA's portfolio, reinforcing its dedication to enhancing animal health and welfare.

“With the trend towards larger and more automated dairy farms, the need to monitor and track animals and production is becoming increasingly important,” says Peter Lauwers, CEO of GEA Farm Technologies. “By adding CattleEye’s advanced AI technology, we are expanding our DairyNet portfolio for modern herd management. This can be a game changer for farmers to improve herd health, farm productivity and financial stability.”

CattleEye's AI system specializes in the rapid detection and prediction of lameness in cows, a significant concern alongside mastitis in dairy cows. Lameness can result in infertility and reduced milk yields, making early detection crucial. Moreover, CattleEye provides essential data for assessing body condition scores, aiding in post-calving health analysis, ration adjustments, and overall physical condition monitoring. By leveraging this AI-driven software, farmers can promptly address issues, enhancing both the welfare and productivity of their herd.

Utilizing a 2D camera combined with specialized software, the CattleEye system analyzes cow movement and body score patterns, providing farmers with unparalleled insight into their herd's health. The system's versatility allows for seamless integration into new and existing farms, irrespective of milking system type or brand.

CattleEye's journey began in 2019, founded by AgTech entrepreneur Terry Canning and senior software architect Adam Askew. With a vision to revolutionize the dairy industry using advanced artificial intelligence in video analytics, CattleEye was officially launched in April 2021. Today, the system monitors over 100,000 cows worldwide, exemplifying its impact and reach.

Accessible anytime via a smartphone, tablet, or computer app, CattleEye's data empowers dairy farmers to promptly identify lame cows or those experiencing early discomfort, enabling swift intervention and treatment.

This acquisition not only enhances GEA's technological offerings but also underscores its commitment to supporting dairy farmers in optimizing herd health and productivity.