Managing dry period increases ease of calving, immunity and milk yield

Tom Chanter, InTouch feeding specialist said: "Good management and nutrition during the dry period is crucial and will support easier calving, improve immunity and increase milk yield during early lactation.

“However, producers typically focus their attention on the milking herd, which means cows are often poorly prepared for calving and transition into lactation. This prevents cows from achieving yield potential and increases the risk of production diseases which are associated with premature culling.”

“Components of the ration, as well as ration presentation, are both important. A high fibre, controlled energy diet, with a crud protein content of between 13 and 14 percent is recommended. Producing an optimal chop length, of between 4 and 6 cm for optimum intake and effect from fibre.

“Dry cow rations tend to be quite dry which can discourage eating, so ration palatability is key. The optimal dry matter (DM) for a dry cow diet is between 42 to 45 percent. If the mix is very dry, adding water can be an effective way to overcome this.”

Mr Chanter recommends the addition of a live yeast can help prepare the rumen for transition onto the milking ration and that good mineral nutrition is critical.

“A good calcium status is vital, but high-quality trace elements including selenium, zinc and copper should also be provided. Conducting a mineral analysis of your forage can help ensure the ration is balanced and avoid specific problems such as milk fever, while trace minerals will benefit overall immunity, due to their essential role in a host of body processes.

“This is particularly important at times of physiological stress such as calving, as the cow may have a sudden requirement for increased levels of minerals. If not available, cows can be more at risk of metabolic diseases such as ketosis and retained placenta.”

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*Godden et al, 2003