BCS Targets: Why Body Condition Score Matters at Calving
Body Condition Score (BCS) is a critical element in managing the health and reproduction of the dairy herd.
These disorders are prevalent just before or after calving, triggered by an inability to mobilise enough calcium. Subclinical cases of milk fever can be hard to pick up, with industry data indicating that for every downer cow it is likely that between 10 and 15 others in the herd will have early stage milk fever symptoms.
“It’s estimated that the cost of a clinical case of milk fever can reach up to $1,500 per cow – including lost milk production, reduced fertility, and increased likelihood of culling due to other diseases such as mastitis. Not only is the risk a costly one, it’s also unnecessary,” says SealesWinslow’s Jackie Aveling.
She says there is a clear link between nutrients and vitamins, and reproduction and lactation in dairy herds.
“Using supplements pre and post calving is a good preventative strategy for metabolic diseases and also sets up cows well for lactation post calving. What’s important is ensuring supplements are readily available well before the calving really picks up from July.”
Dehydrated molasses blocks, such as Crystalyx Dry Cow can be used as a sole source supplement, and need to be available to stock for 60 days prior to calving and then throughout the colostrum period. The dehydrated molasses helps to ensure cows get the right intake, and the minerals and vitamins help to improve the general immunity of the cow.
Aveling says other options include SealesWinslow’s Cattle High Magnesium Block or the Cattle Winter Crop Block. Both are suitable for farmers who want cost-effective delivery of pre-calving magnesium supplementation as part of a programmed approach, and will help ensure stock receive the minerals and trace elements they need.
Aveling says farmers participating in the trials also commented that cows on Crystalyx were calmer, quiet and settled well into milking.
