Livestock

Transition Cow Management and Dairy Welfare

The transition period around calving is the highest-risk time for dairy cow welfare, with most metabolic diseases and production diseases occurring in the first weeks after calving.

Key Facts

Transition period spans three weeks before to three weeks after calving
Negative energy balance at calving triggers mobilisation of body fat
Hypocalcaemia, ketosis, and displaced abomasum all peak in early lactation
Transition cow management directly affects health and welfare for the whole lactation
Good body condition score management reduces transition period risk

Welfare Considerations

Cows in poor transition management suffer from painful conditions including ketosis, lameness, and milk fever. Early detection through routine monitoring reduces suffering duration. Nutrition management in the dry period is the most powerful intervention for preventing transition disease.

What You Can Do

Work with a vet and nutritionist on dry cow and transition nutrition
Monitor body condition score throughout lactation and dry period
Implement ketosis screening protocols in early lactation
Ensure calcium supplementation plans are in place at calving
Review fresh cow monitoring protocols regularly with your vet