Many of the diseases and disorders associated with calving have economic consequences which reach far into lactation.
- Milk Fever
- Metritis
- Ketosis
- Mastitis
- Retained Foetal Membrane
- Displaced Abomasum
The incidence and severity of many of these disorders can be significantly reduced by improving nutrition and management during the dry and transition phases.
Prior to dry-off, it is important that cattle are in good condition, with an average condition score of between 5-5.5. Drying off too lean or overweight can lead to an increase in calving disorders and a reduction in reproductive performance during the following lactation.