Use of Factor Analysis Scores in Multiple Linear Regression Model for Determining Relationships Between Milk Yield and Some Udder Traits in Goats

Abstract

In present study, the relationships between daily milk yield (DMY) and 10 udder traits (upper height, bottom height, depth, width, circumference, left and right teat length, left and right teat circumference, teat angle) were examined by using of factor analysis scores in multiple linear regression model. Four factors (teat, udder and height measurements and teat angle) with eigenvalues greater than 1 were selected as independent or explanatory variables and used for multiple linear regression analysis. It was found that four factors had significant effects on daily milk yield and these factors together accounted for 75.4 % of variation in daily milk yield.