Summary
This controlled factorial study evaluated how shortening the dry period (0, 30, or 60 days) and manipulating dietary energy source in early lactation influence energy balance, milk production, and composition in Holstein-Friesian dairy cows. Cows without a dry period or with a shortened 30-day dry period produced less milk postcalving but maintained improved energy balance compared to the conventional 60-day dry period, with younger cows (parity 2) showing stronger responses to dry period omission. Dietary energy source (glucogenic vs. lipogenic) had minimal effects on milk yield and intake but glucogenic rations tended to improve energy balance and reduce milk fat slightly.
Regional applicability
The study was conducted in the Netherlands using Holstein-Friesians, a breed widely used in United Kingdom dairy systems, making findings directly transferable to UK management decisions regarding dry period length and early lactation nutrition strategy. Results have potential implications for UK herd management, particularly regarding metabolic stress reduction and energy balance optimisation during the transition period.
Key measures
Milk yield (kg/d), dry matter intake (kg/d), energy balance (kJ/kg^0.75·d), milk composition, milk fat composition, energy intake
Outcomes reported
The study measured milk yield, milk composition, dry matter intake, energy balance, and milk fat composition across different dry period lengths (0, 30, 60 days) and dietary energy sources (glucogenic vs. lipogenic) in Holstein-Friesian dairy cows.
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