The transition period is, without a doubt, the most stressful period for the dairy cow’s yearly cycle that needs special attention because it is key to the success, performance and longevity of the dairy operation.

Typically defined as the 3 weeks prior and 3 weeks after parturition, this stage is a time of important physiological, metabolic and social changes.

Since 30% of dairy cows in a herd leave the dairy roughly 90 days post partum, proper nutrition, preventive management and timely diagnosis are important to reduce the incidence of metabolic disorders that negatively impact the success of the subsequent lactation:

Dry Matter Intake (DMI)
Dairy cows, in particular ones that are overweight, decrease feed intake close to parturition. A diminished rumen capacity induced by the rapid growth of the calf in late gestation, major hormonal changes and body condition score at calving are the main influences.

Monitoring body condition in the dry period, encouraging feed intake, cow comfort and palatable high-quality diets at freshening may help sustain lower feed intake, supporting the high demand of nutrients for production in early lactation.

Rumen Function
Diet alterations in the transition period predispose the cows to rumen acidosis and DA’s after calving.

To maximize rumen function and reduce the incidence of acidosis, the rumen environment requires a gradual adaptation through the inclusion of a close-up ration in the nutrition program.

Metabolic Problems
The incidence of metabolic problems in dairy cattle occurs typically 3 to 50 days after calving and is due to a negative energy and mineral balance. Ketosis occurs due to fat mobilization as energy source and ketone production, compromising milk production if present at high levels.

Milk fever occurs due to the challenge of maintaining blood calcium. Calcium plays an important role in muscle contraction and is diverted to colostrum and milk at calving. Anionic salts are a strategy used in diets to promote calcium availability in the blood, reducing the incidence of down cows and retained placentas.

Immune System
Following the DMI decrease there is a notable immune system depression around calving. Vaccination, treatment response and their efficacy are compromised. Adequate selenium and vitamin E supplementation and minimizing other stress factors contribute to the immune system’s ability to fight disease.

Conclusion
An effective transition cow program has a strong influence in the dairy operation’s efficiency. A preventative philosophy, sensible diagnosis and an effective treatment program are essential to improving performance and longevity on the dairy.

Monitoring BCS during transition, encouraging DMI in early lactation, focusing on proper mineral balance and promoting a strong immune system are key to reduce the risk of metabolic upsets in early lactation.

Using proven feed additives can help support feed efficiency and immune system response.  EL