Managing dairy cows during the transition period—the 60 days before and 30 days after calving—is essential for their health, productivity, pregnancy rates, and long-term herd longevity. This period is critical as cows experience high energy demands, especially after calving, which can lead to a negative energy balance (NEB) if they use more energy than they consume. Reducing time in NEB through proper feed intake is vital for minimizing health challenges.
Transition management includes providing adequate bunk space, balanced rations, and a stress-free environment to encourage feeding and mitigate the risk of diseases like hypocalcemia (milk fever) and ketosis. Calcium requirements spike after calving, so supplementing pre- and post-calving can help prevent issues with muscle contraction and mobility. Monitoring tools and routines—such as body condition scoring (BCS), daily health checks, and tracking milk production—allow early detection of health issues and performance disruptions, aiding timely interventions.
Key recommendations include maintaining proper stocking densities, allowing 24 inches of feeding space per cow, providing constant access to water, and ensuring cows eat for at least 23 hours per day. Feed should be monitored to match planned diets, and feed bunk maintenance should support consistent intake. Close observation during early lactation can help identify clinical conditions, reducing involuntary culling and supporting cow welfare and productivity across the herd.
