Cattle Farming

Cattle BCS at Drying Off and Welfare

Managing dairy cow body condition score at drying off is critical for preventing metabolic disease and maintaining welfare through the transition period.

Key Facts

Cows dried off with BCS above 3.5 are at high risk of fatty liver and ketosis at calving
Cows dried off with BCS below 2.5 lack energy reserves for calving and early lactation
Transition disease risk is lowest when BCS at drying off is 2.5-3.0
BCS management during lactation is more effective than trying to adjust condition in the dry period
Gradual feed restriction to reduce condition before drying off is better than abrupt change

Welfare Considerations

Over-condition at drying off is a leading cause of transition period metabolic disease and associated suffering. Fatty liver causes profound metabolic dysfunction, while ketosis causes lethargy and appetite loss. Maintaining target BCS through the lactation rather than attempting correction at drying off is both more effective and more welfare-positive. This requires monitoring and management throughout the year, not just at drying off.

What You Can Do

Support dairy welfare standards requiring BCS recording at drying off and calving
Advocate for BCS management guidance to be included in dairy welfare assurance
Choose dairy from farms with documented transition period health management