The dairy industry is replete with information on the need for calcium supplementation post-freshening. However, lost in all of the calcium conversations is the discussion on insufficient overall nutrient reserves, a changing ration and the fluids lost during freshening, which leave the transition cow unprepared for a quick or complete recovery heading into the demands of lactation.

Calving sets off a series of events in a cow’s body that impacts her entire system. One stressor is a significant spike in calcium demand due to the onset of colostrum production.