If we consider how plants can help our heifers and cows conquer that daunting transition period, there may be more than simply forages, in terms of plants, to consider. Let us dig into the world of phytochemicals.

Jerseys have their own requirements and different nutritional challenges that we must consider when formulating rations.

In my 50 years of experience, managing the level of SCC and mastitis in fresh heifers is critical to achieving excellent milk quality. There are many important ways to improve milk quality on your dairy, but don’t let fresh heifers contribute to your issues.

Producers are encouraged to work with their management team to identify risk factors that may lead to this mid-lactation down cow syndrome.

The transition period is a period of high stress and is generally accompanied by an increased demand for trace minerals for fetal growth, colostrum/milk production and to support a challenged immune system.

It is a pretty exciting time in the field of milk fever prevention. New products, new strategies and new research are here – giving dairy producers more options to prevent milk fever and subclinical hypocalcemia. 

During the transition period, cows experience three main physiological challenges: (1) a drop in dry matter intake (DMI) and an increase in nutrient demands, predisposing cows to mobilize fat tissue and enter a negative energy balance, (2) immunosuppression and (3) systemic inflammation.

“We know that how a transition cow completes her transition period really sets her up for her entire lactation,” Dr. Erin Horst, Ph.D., said as she began her presentation about the Best Practices for Transition Cow Success at the recent Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference. 

Heat stress reduces milk yield and compromises fertility in the dairy cow. This problem is observed across the U.S. and is compounded in the Southern and Southeastern states where summer temperatures are excessive.