Feeding for Fertility Dairy Insight

How cows are fed has a significant impact on fertility, with dry cow nutrition and body condition score management, in particular, paving the way for pregnancy success. With 25% of cows leaving the herd because of fertility (according to Kingshay’s Dairy Manager), and the cost of infertility sitting at £162 per cow or 1.91ppl (Kingshay’s Dairy Costings Focus Report 2025), it pays to do everything possible to tip the odds in your favour. That means focusing on breeding, cow environment and nutrition. For more information, see Reasons for Cows Leaving Dairy Insight.

This publication explores the link between proper feeding practices and improved fertility in cows, highlighting individual nutritional needs of heifers, fresh cows, and dry cows. Learn how tailored feeding strategies can optimise your herd’s reproductive performance.

Issued August 2025

About Kingshay insight publications

Kingshay has been producing bi-monthly publications for dairy farmers since 1991. Publishing on issues critical to the success of a modern dairy farming business.

These briefings include dairy insight, business insight and research insight, they provide dairy farmers, large animal vets, farm consultants and other interested parties with the most vital and timely information in a concise two-page format. The information contained in our insight publications is written and updated by our experts to ensure accuracy and to save you time.

A selection of insight publications and Farming Notes are available to buy individually from our online shop. To gain access to all our publications become a Kingshay member.