The dry period for dairy cows is the time when they stop producing milk before giving birth. This phase is essential for the cow's health and future milk production. Low-yielding cows often naturally cease lactation, while high-yielding cows may require artificial drying to ensure proper rest for their mammary glands and healthy development of the calf. During this time, cows can also build up nutrients and recover physically, which helps reduce the risk of postpartum diseases and prepares them for the next lactation cycle.
However, improper management during the dry period can lead to issues like udder infections or excessive swelling, which not only affect productivity but can also result in early culling of high-producing cows. To avoid these problems, farmers should focus on several key practices:
First, determine the right dry-off time. The typical dry period lasts 50–70 days. However, this can vary based on the cow’s condition. Cows that are young, thin, old, or high-yielding may need a longer dry period (60–75 days), while those with good body condition and lower milk yield can have a shorter one (45–50 days).
Second, adjust feeding strategies gradually. One week after stopping milking, start reducing water intake and milking frequency. Initially, milk three times a day, then reduce to two, and finally once. Adjust concentrate feed based on milk output—remove all concentrates if milk is still high, and limit them if it's above 10 kg per day. Also, increase exercise to improve overall fitness.
Third, perform a final milking and apply dry cow therapy. After the last milking, inject an oil-based antibiotic into each quarter of the udder. A common preparation includes 40 ml of sterilized peanut oil mixed with 3.2 million units of penicillin and 2 million units of streptomycin. Administer 10 ml per teat.
Fourth, monitor the udder closely. In the first few days, the udder may swell, but it should gradually shrink over 7–10 days. If there’s severe swelling, redness, or fever, stop the dry-off process, express milk, and treat the udder with antibiotics and massage until inflammation subsides.
Fifth, manage nutrition carefully. For the first 3–7 days after drying off, reduce concentrate and green feeds to help the udder shrink. Then, provide full-fat concentrates (1.5–2 kg daily) as the due date approaches. Add minerals like bone meal (120–160 g/day) to support fetal growth. Gradually increase concentrate by 350–500 g per day in the final weeks, but reduce calcium-rich feeds to prevent milk fever after calving.
In addition to feeding, proper management is crucial. Keep pregnant cows separated from the herd, ensure clean living conditions, and maintain appropriate water temperatures. In hot weather, provide cooling, and in cold weather, keep water warm. Massage the udder daily for 10 days before and after drying off, and encourage moderate exercise to prevent overeating and digestive issues. Avoid sudden changes in feed to maintain intake.
By following these steps, farmers can ensure a smooth dry period, leading to healthier cows and better performance in the next lactation cycle.
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