Association of Body Condition Score with Ultrasound Measurements of Backfat and Longissimus Dorsi Muscle Thickness in Periparturient Holstein Cows

摘要

Association of body condition scoring with the amount and mobilization of backfat and skeletal muscle around calving in dairy cows, although essential, has not been sufficiently investigated yet. The metabolic state of subcutaneous fat can be safely predicted by repeated body condition scorings, but the metabolic state of muscle tissue must be assessed by repeated ultrasound measurements. The results enhance our on-farm ability to assess the nutrient reserves in dairy cows transitioning from gestation to lactation.