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232. Condition scoring is a technique for assessing, at regular intervals, the degree of fatness or thinness of livestock. By frequent monitoring, any rapid changes in mobilisation of body tissues and bodyweight changes can be identified and appropriate action taken, before they affect cow health and welfare. Condition scoring facilitates a balance between economic feeding, good production and minimal welfare problems. Optimum condition score varies throughout the production cycle with some small differences between breeds. A new MAFF booklet on condition scoring of dairy cattle is currently being finalised.
233. It is crucial to ensure that the dairy cow is in the optimum condition, particularly at certain stages in its life: at calving, peak yield, mid-lactation and at drying off. Feeding should be altered as necessary. For example, many dry cows are too fat and such cows are more prone to dystocia, metabolic disorders and diseases. Cows should achieve condition score 2.5 to 3.0 at drying off and condition should be maintained throughout the dry period. Cows should not lose weight when dry.