Negative energy balance in high-yielding dairy cows and nutritional management strategies during transition period

Introduction Energy balance in dairy cows indicates the difference between the total energy requirements for various activities (maintenance, growth and productivity) and the energy received through feeds and fodders. When the difference is positive, then the condition is termed as positive energy balance and when the difference is negative, it is termed as negative energy balance (NEB). The NEB is very common in high-yielding dairy cows during the transition period (three weeks before and three weeks after calving). Nearly all high-yielding dairy cows experience a state of NEB during this period for the enhanced energy demand for maintenance and lactation which exceeds the dietary energy intake. There is significant reduction of feed/dry matter intake in transition period and hence the energy intake. Simultaneously, high milk production renders extensive drainage of energy via colostrum and milk. Cows tries to manage the increased energy requirements through catabolism of body tissues, but it also requires considerable time to sustain to a positive energy balance. NEB makes the cow prone to metabolic disorders and diseases like ketosis and fatty liver condition. Body reserves are also utilized to meet the nutritional demand of mammary gland for milk production.