The Assessment of Body Condition in High-Yielding Holstein-Friesian Cows as a Diagnostic Tool for Detecting Energy Metabolism Disorder

Abstract

The body condition of dairy cows is a key indicator of their energy status, especially during the peripartum period when intense mobilization of body reserves occurs. An inadequate energy balance during this period can lead to metabolic disorders, which negatively affect the health and production performance of the animals. This study presents the results of research conducted on three large farms in the municipality of Palilula (city of Belgrade), where body condition scoring (BCS) was performed on 90 high-yielding Holstein-Friesian cows in different phases of their production and reproductive cycle. The scoring was carried out by visual assessment and palpation of key anatomical body regions, according to the standardized system (Elanco Animal Health Bulletin AL 8478). The results showed that the greatest fluctuations in body condition occurred between the dry period, the puerperium, and early lactation, with Farm C recording deviations beyond physiologically acceptable limits. Body weight losses were especially pronounced in early puerperium, while cows in late lactation tended to accumulate excessive body reserves. The data obtained highlight the importance of regular monitoring of body condition as a tool for optimizing nutrition and preventing metabolic disorders.