In the dairy cow, body condition is an indicator of the amount of stored energy reserves and changes with different stages of lactation. Fresh cows in peak lactation tend to be in a negative energy balance and therefore lose body condition. Late lactation cows, dry cows and low producers are in a positive energy balance and gain condition. There is a range of desirable stages of each lactation. Adequate body reserves are necessary to maintain health, production and reproductive efficiency.
Underconditioned cows are prone to reduced milk production and poor persistency of lactation.
Overly conditioned cows are predisposed to calving difficulties, fatty liver syndrome, impaired reproduction and metabolic disorders. Body condition scoring of cattle is an essential management tool for the progressive dairy farmer. It can be mastered with a little training and good observation skills, using both sight and touch to evaluate each cow. Deep cavity around tailhead. Bones of pelvis and short ribs sharp and easily felt.