Herd Health

Milk and other dairy products have long enjoyed a positive consumer image. Most producers take great pride in believing that they produce wholesome and nutritious foods for human consumption. Along with that image, however, comes the responsibility for ensuring that dairy food products are both wholesome and safe, through prevention and treatment of diseases that can adversely affect milk quality.

High-producing dairy cows are most susceptible to metabolic diseases during the periparturient period. During the first few days of lactation, milk production increases more rapidly than dry matter intake (DMI). Maintaining high DMI is essential to attain optimal milk production. The prepartum diet, body condition score, and environmental and managerial conditions affect DMI.

Postpartum disease events have an even greater impact on DMI. Objectives of this study were to determine the effect of adverse health events on DMI, milk production, bodyweight, reproductive indices and mature equivalent (ME) production of dairy cows.

Bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) has caused much confusion among producers, veterinarians and researchers.

We’re often reminded of change this time of year as outdoor temperatures drop lower, leaves change color and shorts and sandals are exchanged for coats and boots. The change in temperature and weather can negatively impact udder health and, if not handled properly, can wreak havoc on teat ends.

The [CowSigns] program helps monitor key parameters more accurately by compiling data on specific management areas and comparing current data and trends to optimal values (input versus output metrics) in order to pinpoint bottlenecks and opportunities. The following article is a follow-up and update about the program and what it is proving about cow comfort.