Dry cow

A dry cow refers to a dairy cow that is in a stage of their lactation cycle where milk production ceases prior to calving. This part of their lactation cycle is referred to as the cows dry period and typically last between 40 and 65 days.^[1] Dry cows are typically divided into two groups: far-off (60–21 days before calving) and close-up (21 days to calving).^[2] Once the cow has entered this stage, producers will seal the cows teat while following a veterinarian recommended, dry cow therapy for their herd. This dry period is a critical part of their lactation cycle and is important for the cows health, the newborn calf and future milk production, as it allows the cow time to rest, eat and prepare for birth. During this time, the cow will produce colostrum for the newly born calf.

Research has shown that this period impacts overall milk production yields during their next lactation.^[3] Dry periods that are too short have been associated with reduced milk yields and increased risks of infections. Dry periods that are too long have also been linked to an overall decrease in lifetime milk yields but could also lead to over-conditioning, metabolic diseases, and infections.^[2] During this time the cow is highly susceptible to intra-mammary infections due to the anatomical and functional changes occurring within the mammary gland. Proper individualized treatments and management must be implemented for optimal health and production as well as disease prevention.