Farm Animals

Dairy Cow Dry-Off Welfare: Pain Management

The dry-off period in dairy cows causes discomfort from abrupt cessation of milking and elevated mastitis risk, requiring active welfare management.

Key Facts

Abrupt cessation of milking at dry-off causes udder distension and discomfort for 3-7 days
Intramammary antibiotic infusion at dry-off is used to prevent mastitis but raises AMR concerns
Anti-inflammatory treatment at dry-off significantly reduces discomfort based on behaviour studies
Gradual milk reduction before dry-off reduces peak udder pressure and associated discomfort

Welfare Considerations

Dry-off is a welfare event that is often managed with insufficient attention to cow discomfort. Evidence supports the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs at dry-off as standard protocol, alongside management strategies that reduce peak udder pressure.

What You Can Do

Advocate for pain relief protocols at dairy cow dry-off as a welfare standard
Support research into selective dry cow therapy that reduces antibiotic use without compromising welfare
Engage with dairy assurance schemes to include dry-off welfare protocols in audit criteria