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Why is the "drying period" of dairy cows so critical? Uncover the secrets of cattle health!
The "dry period" of dairy cows refers to the critical stage in the milk production cycle when milk production stops and preparation for upcoming parturition occurs. This phase, which usually lasts between 40 and 65 days, is critical to the health of the cow, the health of the calf, and future milk production.
This stage allows the cow only time to rest, eat, and prepare for birth. During this period, the colostrum in milk is produced, which is especially important for newborn calves.
According to research, the length of the dry period directly affects the milk production of dairy cows in the next lactation. When the dry period is too short, it usually results in reduced milk production and increases the risk of infection in cattle; while too long a dry period may result in lower overall lifetime milk production and even lead to metabolic diseases and infections.
Physiological changes
During the dry period, the mammary gland will undergo a series of changes, which are closely related to the synthesis and secretion of milk. This period of time can effectively promote the renewal of breast tissue and prepare for the upcoming milk production. During this process, the cow only has a chance to clear the mammary gland of the pathogens that cause mastitis.
In the early stages of non-milk production, milk white matter and cell survival genes are reduced, resulting in the loss of epithelial cells.
As milk production decreases, the concentration of certain components in the mammary gland such as lactose and fat decreases. As delivery approaches, the parenchymal tissue within the mammary gland re-develops to support the upcoming milk production.
Management of drying period
Implementing appropriate management practices during the dry period is critical to cow health and future milk production. Microbial exposure, mammary gland defense mechanisms, and environmental factors must be considered to prevent and control infection rates.
Good sanitation and environmental disinfection help reduce microbial exposure and keep cattle healthy.
During the dry period, cattle should avoid excessive social stress to ensure their appetite and immune systems are not affected. Managing heat stress is also necessary as it can reduce the development of mammary tissue and affect milk production.
Nutritional needs
Dairy cows also have specific nutritional needs during the dry period. The diet of cows that are farther from parturition than those that are closer to parturition should be different in response to changes in their metabolism. Cattle that are farther from parturition require a high-fiber, low-energy diet, while cattle that are closer to parturition require a more energy-dense diet.
Malnutrition may affect the health of the cow and, in turn, future milk production.
Ensuring that cattle receive adequate protein is important for their health, milk production and reproduction. If it is not possible to provide separate diets for cattle further away from farrowing and those closer to farrowing, the farm can choose a shorter drying period coupled with an appropriate diet to ensure their health.
Conclusion
When considering the overall health and future milk production capacity of dairy cows, the dry period is no longer just a simple rest period, but an indispensable part of health management. Could investing in the right dry period management measures lead to longer cow health and higher milk production, thereby changing the future of the entire dairy industry?
