The body condition scoring system of dairy cows : review

Abstract

The body condition scoring system (BCS) is a means of accurately determining body condition of dairy cows, independent of body weight and farm size. The body condition scores represent a subjective visual or tactile (or both) evaluation of the amount of subcutaneous fat in a cow. The system is a useful method of evaluating body energy reserves and is used widely for evaluating nutritional status in dairy cows. Changes in BCS reflect both the body composition and energy balance, which in turn, are critical for metabolic stability, health and fertility. The objective of this study is to present the role of body condition scoring system in dairy management. The main focus is the impact of changing BCS on milk production, changing of body weight and reproduction. The advantage of the body condition scoring system of dairy cattle is that the grouping of stocks is easier with it and the deficiency of feeding and keeping system can be detected. The body condition scoring system is a little labour-intensive, but the application of the method will be returned in milk production. The use the method in the practice is worth considering based on economic and physiological criteria. The aim of this study is to present how useful the body condition score system for the farmers.