The dry period and calving

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” 

40% of dairy cows are afflicted with health problems during the peripartum stage, which is the period that lasts from three weeks before calving to three weeks after.

During the transition period, immune responses are weakened, threats or cases of infection are frequent and the risk of energy deficits is systematic. Milk fever (hypocalcaemia), placental retention, mastitis and metritis are just some of the potential risks related to the calving period. A feed management programme that targets the dry period and calving preparation is key to a successful shedding of the placenta, quality colostrum, healthy calves and a good start to lactation.

Clear objectives for the dry period and calving preparation

This period of transition causes a buildup of multifactorial stress for animals. Dry cows are exposed to changes to their feed, environment, and mammary system as well as social and physiological stresses. For this reason, they need extra support.

• Maintain your cows’ ingestion and body condition
• An effective management plan to control stresses
• Prevent energy deficits and hypocalcaemia
• Sufficient supply of energy and protein for your heifers and calves
• Controlled feed transitions