Previous Webinar: Setting the cow up for success – Transition management – Part 1

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Download the slide deck here

Download the summary here

Webinar summary: Setting the cow up for success – Transition management – Part 1

This webinar addresses key strategies and considerations for successfully managing dairy cows through the transition period, focusing on metabolic processes, cow condition, diet, and stress management.

In this webinar:

1. Overview of metabolic processes

   • Transition impacts the rumen and liver significantly, with energy and nutrient dynamics critical for cow health.
   • Effective management ensures cow recovery post-calving, improved milk yield, and overall health.

2. Essential factors for a successful transition

   • Cow condition must average between 4.8 – 5.2 Body Condition Score (BCS) at calving.
   • Diet calculations must consider energy, protein, and effective fibre (eNDF).
   • Metabolic balance, particularly calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, DCAD, and trace minerals, supports optimal cow health.
   • Ideal transition length is 21 days, though this can vary between 14 to 28 days based on dietary changes.

3. Cow condition management

   • Proper cow condition ensures reserves, good appetite, and optimal metabolic balance.
   • Over-conditioned cows face higher liver stress, poor recovery, and increased metabolic issues.
   • Under-conditioned cows struggle with low production and variable appetite, needing careful energy allocation and protein management.

4. Diet formulation and calculation

   • Accurate feed calculation based on cow condition and live weight is vital.
   • Energy must be managed carefully to support rumen papillae growth without overstimulating the liver.
   • Protein levels ideally should range between 16-18% to support metabolic demands, especially for at-risk groups.
   • Fibre intake (ideally over 45%) is essential for rumen health, stimulating rumination, and reducing stress.

5. Metabolic balance and liver function

   • Balanced minerals, especially calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and DCAD, are key.
   • Liver function benefits from specific amino acids, methyl donors, B vitamins, and trace minerals to enhance cow resilience.

6. Best feeding and supplementation practices

   • Feed must be consistently and adequately allocated, prioritising essential nutrients first.
   • Supplement blending and palatability significantly impact feed intake.
   • Managing environmental factors such as feed accessibility and weather protection is crucial.

7. Reducing cow stress

   • Minimising group changes, providing ample clean water, and ensuring ad-lib fibre availability are fundamental.
   • Shelter from bad weather and gentle handling reduce stress, enhancing cow health and productivity outcomes.

For more detailed information, watch the webinar or download the slide deck.