Farm Animals

Dairy Cow Dry-Off Welfare

The dry-off period before calving is a high-risk welfare transition requiring careful management to prevent mastitis and minimise udder discomfort.

Key Facts

Dry-off ends lactation and allows the udder to recover before the next calving
Abrupt dry-off causes udder engorgement and discomfort, particularly in high-yielding cows
Gradual dry-off through feed restriction reduces yield before cessation
Dry cow therapy (internal teat sealants and/or antibiotics) prevents new infections during dry period
Pain assessment at dry-off should guide analgesia decisions, especially in high yielders

Welfare Considerations

Dry-off is an often-overlooked welfare event that causes acute discomfort in high-yielding dairy cows. Targeted management and analgesia reduce unnecessary suffering.

What You Can Do

Support farms with documented dry-off welfare protocols including pain assessment
Advocate for evidence-based dry-off standards in dairy welfare codes
Ask dairy producers about their approach to reducing dry-off discomfort