Length of dry period: Dry periods typically last 60 days and involve both a far-off and a close-up period. The close-up period begins three weeks before expected calving. Research has found that if no dry period is provided for a cow, she will produce 25 to 30% less milk the next lactation.
Low milk production at drying off ensures a minimal build up of milk pressure in the udder and consequently a lower risk of milk leaking, meaning effective closure of the teat canal so reducing the chances of infection. The risk of mastitis shortly after drying off is relatively high, especially if dry cow treatment is eliminated due to leaking.
If a herd is not big enough or it is not possible to manage close-up and far-off dry cows separately, dry cows can be managed as one group with a shorter dry period and a negative DCAD diet. Length of dry period: Dry periods typically last 60 days and involve both a far-off and a close-up period.
How to prevent transition cow disorders during the dry period?
Meeting nutrition requirements of cows, depending on what phase of the dry period they are in and the length of the dry period, will help prevent transition cow disorders and ensure maximum milk production in the following lactation.
How long should a cow be dry before calving?
A dry period of approximately 60 days is recommended for spring-calving cows. A longer dry period is required for first calvers and cows in poor condition (<2.75) to ensure that they calve at the optimal condition score for the following lactation.
Another frequent query is “How often does a cow have a hard time calving?”.
One source stated Less than 2% of calving difficulties occur in mature cows. Special attention should be given to young heifers, which are also more apt to tire quickly, especially if they are in sub-optimal body condition. Rule of thumb: Assist after 30 minutes of no progress.
How do I know when my cow is ready to calve?
As the calving season approaches, the cows will show typical signs that will indicate parturition is imminent. These indicate the cow is due to calve in the near future.