Dry Period Management in Dairy Cows: Welfare Considerations 2026

The dry period - the 6-8 weeks before calving when dairy cows are not milked - is critical for cow welfare and the transition to the next lactation.

Key Facts

The dry period allows the cow's udder to regenerate and immune function to prepare for calving
Dry cow therapy to prevent mastitis during the dry period traditionally involved antibiotic treatment of all cows
Selective dry cow therapy treats only cows with existing mastitis, reducing unnecessary antibiotic use
Dry cows require different nutrition than milking cows - overfeeding in early dry period worsens transition welfare
Body condition score at drying off should be 2.5-3.0 to reduce transition disease risk

Welfare Considerations

Dry period welfare is shaped by nutritional management and the method of drying off. Abrupt drying off of high-yielding cows causes udder engorgement, increased mastitis risk, and acute discomfort from milk accumulation. Gradual reduction in milking frequency or dietary manipulation before drying off substantially reduces this welfare burden. Dry cow housing should provide adequate space and minimal social stress, as the immune system is naturally suppressed during the dry period. Internal teat sealants without antibiotics effectively prevent new mastitis infections in healthy quarters, supporting antibiotic stewardship while maintaining udder health welfare.

What You Can Do

Work with your vet to implement selective dry cow therapy to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use
Ensure dry cows receive appropriate nutrition with controlled energy intake in early dry period
Monitor dry cows regularly for signs of mastitis, lameness, and body condition change
Advocate for dry period management as a key welfare component in dairy farm assurance