Transition cow nutrition and management

Abstract

SUMMARY Over the past 20 years, the dry cow and especially the transition period have been recognized as critical elements to improving dairy productive and reproductive efficiency. Numerous research studies completed over this time period have better explained dynamic metabolic and physiologic changes taking place as a cow transitions from pregnancy into lactation and their potential role in health-related problems. Improved characterization of nutrient requirements and management practices has also been elucidated. Besides the obvious impact on periparturient disease, transition nutrition influences milk production and reproductive performance. Transition nutrition is not the sole solution; it must be coordinated with good cow comfort, feeding management and methods to reduce behavioral and environmental stressors.