Drying off is more than just the end of a lactation period — it’s a key opportunity to reset cows and set them up for the next production cycle.
How cows are managed during this time can influence body condition, recovery, and ultimately reproductive performance in the following season.
Why drying off matters
The drying off period allows cows to redirect energy away from milk production and toward maintenance, recovery and preparing for the next joining.
Cows that remain under nutritional pressure for too long can struggle to regain condition, which may impact:
• Conception rates
• Calving outcomes
• Overall productivity in the next cycle
Managing this transition well helps support both animal welfare and long-term performance.
Condition is key
Body condition score (BCS) is one of the most important factors to monitor when drying off.
Cows that are too light at drying off can find it difficult to regain condition, particularly as pasture quality declines heading into winter. On the other hand, cows in good condition are better positioned to maintain performance and cycle effectively at joining.
Early intervention is critical — it’s far easier to maintain condition than to rebuild it later.
Nutrition through the transition
As cows dry off, their nutritional requirements change, but they don’t disappear.
Energy and protein remain important, particularly where pasture quality is declining. At the same time, trace minerals continue to play a role in supporting:
• reproductive function
• immune response
• overall metabolic health
Subclinical deficiencies can limit performance without obvious signs, making them easy to overlook during this period.
Supporting recovery and fertility
The period following drying off is closely linked to reproductive performance in the next joining.
Ensuring cows have adequate nutrition and mineral status supports:
• recovery post-lactation
• return to cycling
• improved conception outcomes
This is particularly important in seasonal systems where timing and fertility have a direct impact on overall herd productivity.
Taking a practical approach
Drying off should be viewed as part of a broader management strategy, rather than a single event.
Monitoring condition, reviewing feed availability and considering nutritional gaps can help ensure cows are well supported through this transition.
Where trace mineral status may be limiting, targeted supplementation can be used alongside feed planning to support recovery and performance.
Products such as Acti-Trace and Acti-Trace with B12 provide a convenient option for delivering key trace minerals and Vitamin B12 during this period.
The drying off period is an opportunity to set the foundation for the next season.
By focusing on condition, nutrition and recovery, producers can position their cattle for improved fertility and performance when it matters most.
