Effects of Pre-calving Body Condition Score and Prepartum Feeding Level on Production, Reproduction, and Health Parameters in Pasture-Based Transition Dairy Cows

An experiment was undertaken to determine if grazing cows differing in BCS a month before calving required different nutritional management. Results indicate that cows consuming 75% of their energy requirements before calving have a less severe negative energy balance after calving and a reduced risk of milk fever, irrespective of calving condition. However, immune competence is compromised in thin cows that are underfed before calving, possibly increasing the risk of infectious diseases. Cows in optimum condition or excessively fat will likely benefit from a 10-20% restriction in energy intake before calving, whereas thinner cows need to be fed to requirements.