Farm Animal Welfare

Cattle Dry Cow Management and Welfare

Dry cow management during the non-lactating period critically influences welfare at calving and during the subsequent lactation.

Key Facts

The dry period typically lasts 6-8 weeks before calving
Dry cow therapy reduces udder infection prevalence at calving
Over-conditioned dry cows have higher rates of metabolic disease at calving
Selective dry cow therapy reduces antibiotic use without compromising welfare
Adequate space and comfortable housing during the dry period supports body condition maintenance

Welfare Considerations

The dry period is a welfare-critical transition time when appropriate nutrition and management set the foundation for a healthy calving and lactation. Over-conditioned or under-nourished dry cows experience more difficult calvings, more metabolic disease, and reduced welfare during the subsequent lactation. Dry cow management is a high-impact welfare investment.

What You Can Do

Support targeted dry cow therapy training for dairy farm managers
Advocate for body condition scoring at drying off as a welfare standard
Learn about dry cow management welfare implications