Choosing the Best Dry-Off Strategy for Dairy Cows in AMS

Drying off a dairy cow — the process of stopping milking at the end of a lactation — is more than just a pause. It’s a critical management step that influences udder health, infection risk, and future milk yield. With automatic milking systems (AMS), producers now have tools to fine-tune dry-off plans for each cow. This article compares abrupt and gradual methods and helps identify which approach best suits your herd.

Abrupt Dry-Off: Simple but Riskier for High Producers

In an abrupt dry-off, cows continue their normal milking routine until the final milking, then are stopped immediately. This approach appeals for its simplicity and time savings.

However, research shows that abrupt drying off can increase the risk of milk leakage and udder engorgement, especially in high-yielding cows. These animals experience higher intramammary pressure, which can delay closure of the teat canal and allow bacteria to enter.

Cows producing more than 12 kg (≈ 28 lb) of milk per day at dry-off are particularly vulnerable to mastitis or elevated somatic cell counts (SCC) in the next lactation. That makes abrupt dry-off more suitable for cows with lower production and good udder health records.

Gradual Dry-Off: Smoother Transition, Healthier Outcomes

A gradual dry-off reduces milk production in the days leading up to the dry period, allowing the udder to adjust naturally. This helps form the keratin plug — a waxy barrier that protects against bacterial infection during the dry period.

How to Manage Gradual Dry-Off in AMS

In herds using AMS, there are two main levers:

1. Reduce milking frequency
   By limiting how often a cow is permitted to visit the robot, milk yield declines naturally.

2. Reduce concentrate allocation
   Cutting back energy intake lowers milk output and reduces motivation to visit the robot.

When these strategies are combined, studies show greater yield reductions. One trial found cows with both restrictions produced 4.8 kg less milk per day versus 3.6 kg when only one method was used.

Benefits

Gradual dry-off typically:

• Reduces milk leakage and udder swelling

• Promotes keratin plug formation

• Lowers mastitis risk in early lactation

Although it requires more monitoring and planning, gradual dry-off often provides a smoother, more welfare-friendly transition for high-producing cows.

Comparing the Two: Which Method Fits Your Herd?

No single approach suits every herd. The best method depends on yield levels, mastitis history, and available management tools.

• Low-yielding cows nearing the end of lactation often respond well to abrupt dry-off.

• High producers or cows with previous mastitis may benefit from a gradual reduction.

It’s also critical to manage dry period length carefully; most experts recommend six to eight weeks for optimal udder recovery.

Best Practices for Any Dry-Off Program

Regardless of method, these steps support success:

1. Use internal teat sealants or dry-cow antibiotic therapy following strict hygiene protocols.

2. Maintain a written dry-off protocol so all team members follow consistent steps.

3. Choose a clean, low-stress environment such as the AMS unit or a handling chute.

4. Monitor udder health during the dry period for signs of swelling or leakage.

5. Segregate dry cows from the milking herd to reduce infection risk.

Finding the Right Fit for Your Herd

Drying off is one of the most influential management moments in a cow’s lactation cycle. AMS technology makes it easier than ever to personalize the process for each animal. While abrupt dry-off can still work well for low-yielders, gradual dry-off often provides greater comfort, udder health, and production consistency.

By aligning dry-off strategy with herd goals, producers can protect cow welfare and position the next lactation for success.