The transition period, from three weeks before to three weeks after calving, sets the stage for a successful lactation. As you are preparing for the summer heat, evaluate your feed management program for transition cows. Score your management from one to five in the following areas with a five for always to a one for never.

Sub-acute ruminal acidosis (SARA) is described as a digestive disorder where the pH of the ruminal contents is between 5.5 and 5.8. Historical estimates indicate it costs the dairy industry in North America between $500 million and $1 billion per year. A decrease in rumen pH from the normal range of 6.0 to 6.4 may be attributed to many factors. Some potential causes include: • Quick diet changes from a lower to a higher concentrate ration • Overmixing the TMR • High DCAD diets • Diet sorting and errors in nutrient content of feeds.

Traditionally, corn has been the major energy source for dairy rations because of the high starch content. The starch provides energy needed for high milk production; however, when too much starch is added at the expense of forage, rumen pH decreases. When rumen pH falls, intake decreases, as does fiber digestion and milk fat concentration.