The Relationship between Body Condition Score and Milk Production, Udder Health and Reduced Negative Energy Balance during Initial Lactation Period: A Review

Achieving improved milk yield from a healthy udder, with a minimum weight loss especially during initial lactation, is the aim of every dairy farmer. Body condition score (BCS) of dairy cows has been found to be significantly associated with body weight, milk performance and udder health status of dairy cow during the pre and post- partum period. Under and over body condition of dairy cows should be avoided. Both condi-tions lead to weight loss, loss of milk, poor udder health and metabolic disease in dairy animals. Cows should have balanced body condition before and after calving. Better management practices during the dry period and at calving may optimize production, and udder health in subsequent lactation. This review aims to highlight livestock management strategies during the dry period which may help in optimizing BCS at calving and during the subsequent lactation period, thus improving milk performance and udder health, and reducing weight loss in early lactation.