Body Condition Scoring in Cows

This video tutorial provides a step-by-step guide to assigning body condition scores to dairy cows using the method developed by Ferguson and colleagues in 1994. The scoring system ranges from 1 to 5, focusing on scores between 2.5 and 4.0. The tutorial explains how to evaluate specific anatomical areas, such as the pelvis and loin, and how to distinguish between cows with different body conditions. It also covers the importance of using judgment when cows fall between categories and provides examples to help viewers become comfortable with the scoring process.

What is the primary focus of the body condition scoring system for dairy cows?

• To evaluate the milk production capacity

• To assess the health of the udder

• To assign scores based on body fat and condition

• To determine the age of the cow

Which anatomical areas are primarily evaluated when assigning body condition scores?

• Udder and legs

• Pelvis and loin

• Head and neck

• Tail and hooves

How are cows initially divided into groups for body condition scoring?

• By age

• By breed

• By milk production

• By body condition score of 3 or less and greater than 3

What does a 'V' angle between the hooks and pins indicate about a cow's body condition score?

• The cow is under-conditioned

• The cow is over-conditioned

• The cow scores 3 or less

• The cow scores above 3

When refining scores for cows scoring 3 or less, what does the presence of angular hooks indicate?

• The cow is over-conditioned

• The cow scores above 3

• The cow scores 3.0

• The cow scores 2.75 or less

What is the significance of visible padding on the pins when refining scores for cows scoring 3 or less?

• The cow scores above 3

• The cow scores below 2.75

• The cow scores 2.75

• The cow scores 3.0

How is the score refined for cows with a body condition score greater than 3?

• By evaluating the udder size

• By assessing the cow's age

• By checking the visibility of ligaments

• By measuring the cow's height

What does it mean if neither the sacral nor the tail head ligament is visible in a cow?

• The cow scores 3.5

• The cow scores 4.0 or more

• The cow scores below 3

• The cow scores 3.25

What score is assigned to cows with a generous covering of fat on all bones?

• 3.75

• 4.5

• 5.0

• 4.25

What is the first area to fill in with fat in cows scoring over 4?

• The head

• The udder

• The legs

• The thorough area