Understanding the BCS System Body condition scores basically describe the degree of fatness of a cow. A numerical range of 1 to 9 identifies varying degrees of fatness, with 1 being very thin and 9 being excessively fat. When scoring cows for body condition, be sure to account for pregnancy status, gut fill, hair coat and age. Do not make the mistake of using live weight as the determining factor for body condition and fat reserves. Simply, gut fill and pregnancy status prevent weight from being an accurate indicator of fatness.
Animals can have different live weights but similar body condition scores.
Likewise, animals of similar live weight, may differ in body condition. The Best Score For on-farm application grouping cows using a BCS range is more practical. Cows scoring 4 or lower are considered thin and normally experience pregnancy rates of 60 percent and lower. The best range for BCS is 5 through 7. Cows in this range are moderate in body fatness and exhibit pregnancy rates over 75 percent.