The Nutrition of Dairy Cattle in Dry Period

Abstract

The dry period is a critical period for both the cow and the fetus, covering the last two months of pregnancy in cows. During this period, the nutritional needs of the cow increase as the development of the fetus is quite rapid. In the ration, especially protein and energy should be arranged according to needs. However, in this period, overfeeding as well as underfeeding can cause some negative situations. Feeding cows with highenergy rations causes adiposity, leading to some metabolic disorders, especially difficu lt birth. Vitamin and mineral levels are as important as energy and protein levels in the ration. During this period, attention should be paid to the calcium (Ca) and phosphorus (P) levels of the diet in terms of milk fever. Since the dry period allows the udder tissue of the cow to renew itself, it also has a positive effect on the future lactation yield. For all these reasons, paying attention to some rules in dry period nutrition has a positive effect on the cow's productivity and health.