Transition - a headache or an opportunity?

Abstract

Dairy professionals have to proactively manage the areas that can become obstacles to a lifetime of high production in the pre-weaned heifer. Less data exists regarding the long-term ef­fects associated with different weaning strategies and gut me­tabolism. While the immune system can be reinforced through nutrition, potential sources of gut stress may be present due to feed transitions, moldy feed, sorting, overcrowding and lack of quality water available. In addition to those potential sources of inflammation, it is important to proactively manage the body composition of gain in heifers in order to achieve a successful lactation.