A dry cow is a cow that is pregnant and is not lactating. They are typically fed a diet that is lower in energy and protein than a lactating cow, but higher in fiber. The goal of feeding a dry cow is to ensure a smooth, stress-free calving, maximise feed intake, condition the rumen bugs to what they will experience in lactation and to prepare her for future milk production.
A typical dry cow diet will consist of:
- Forage: grass silage, maize silage, straw, hybrid Rye, hay or haylage
- Grain: Wheat, Maize or barley
- Crude protein supplement: Soybean meal, Rapeseed Meal, or milk protein concentrate
- Minerals: Macro minerals, trace elements, and vitamins
The exact composition of the diet during the transition period will vary depending on the forage base and the cow's individual feed intake needs, but it is important to make sure that she is getting sufficient energy intake, protein, fibre, and minerals. Wynnstay has a range of transition-related products designed to promote a healthy and profitable transition.
Here are some tips for feeding a dry cow
- Start feeding a specific dry cow diet at least 6 weeks prior to calving. This will give her time to adjust to the new diet and to build up her body condition.
- Feed the dry cow a diet that is high in fiber. Fiber helps to keep the cow's digestive system healthy and can help to prevent milk fever.
- Avoid feeding the dry cow too much grain. Grain can cause the cow to gain too much weight and can increase her risk of developing metabolic diseases.
- Make sure that the dry cow has access to clean, fresh water at all times.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your dry cow is healthy and well-prepared for the upcoming lactation.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when feeding during the dry period
- Cows should be entering the dry cow period with a body condition score of 3-3.5
- If the cow is outside of this body condition score consider feed additives that help manage the negative effects of overfat or over thin cows
- If the cow is grazing, make sure that the pasture is not too lush. Lush pastures can cause the cow to gain too much weight and can increase her risk of developing metabolic diseases.
- In order to prevent milk fever potassium and sodium levels in the dry cow diet need managing. Chloride products can be added to manage the effect of high potassium levels
