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High-producing dairy cows dry milk feeding technology
Dry milk, also known as drying off, is the process where dairy cows stop producing milk before giving birth. This period allows the cow’s body to rest and prepare for calving, ensuring the healthy development of the fetus and the recovery of mammary tissue. Low-yielding cows may naturally stop milking before calving, while high-yielding cows often require artificial dry-off to avoid overexertion. Proper dry-off management is essential to maintain milk production potential, reduce the risk of postpartum diseases, and support a successful next lactation cycle.
In practice, improper dry-off techniques can lead to udder infections, mastitis, or excessive swelling, which not only affect productivity but may even result in early culling of high-producing cows, causing economic losses. To ensure a smooth transition, the following key technical points should be followed:
1. **Determine Dry-Off Time**
The dry period typically lasts 50–75 days, depending on the cow’s condition. Cows that are young, underweight, old, or have high milk yields may need a longer dry period (60–75 days). For cows with good udders and lower milk output, it can be shortened to 45–50 days. However, the dry period should not be less than 42 days, as this could negatively impact future milk production and the cow’s overall health.
2. **Adjust Feeding Plan**
Start adjusting the feeding program from the first week of dry-off. Gradually switch from free-choice water to scheduled drinking. In the third day, adjust feed based on milk yield. If the cow is still producing high volumes, reduce concentrates. If milk is around 10kg per day, you can slightly reduce the amount of concentrate. When daily milk drops below 1kg, stop reducing feed and limit water intake instead.
3. **Modify Management Practices**
Reduce milking frequency from three times a day to two, then to one as milk production declines. Increase exercise time to improve fitness and metabolism. Change milking routines, such as timing, location, and feeding schedules, to disrupt the milking reflex and help the cow transition smoothly.
4. **Final Milking and Treatment**
After the last heavy milking session, close the teats, clean the udder, massage it gently, and fully express any remaining milk. Apply 1% iodophor to the teats, then inject dry cow therapy into each teat. Reapply iodophor after injection to prevent infection.
5. **Monitor Udder Changes**
Within the first few days, the udder will swell and become firm. Over the next 3–5 days, the milk will be reabsorbed, and by day 7–10, the udder will shrink and soften. At this point, the cow has successfully dried off.
6. **Important Precautions**
- **Keep Udders Clean**: Maintain hygiene in the barn and change bedding regularly to prevent contamination.
- **Monitor Cow Behavior**: Watch for signs of stress, fever, or loss of appetite. Treat affected cows with sedatives or antibiotics if necessary.
- **Prevent Udder Damage**: If the udder becomes severely swollen or inflamed, temporarily resume milking and provide anti-inflammatory treatment before resuming dry-off.
- **Improve Overall Management**: Avoid touching or massaging the udder. Ensure a clean, well-ventilated environment, and avoid feeding moldy or frozen feed. Keep water at least 12°C in winter to prevent illness and ensure successful dry-off.