AfiWeigh

The AfiWeigh System automatically monitors the cow’s weight in order to identify changes in its energy balance and body condition during lactation and transition periods. Such information is managed through AfiFarm’s software together with the rest of Afimilk’s modules.
This system consists in one or more scales that are installed in the exit alleys of the milking parlor. The information facilitates the elaboration of reports based on the cow’s weight, which are fundamental for an efficienct herd management.

Why is it necessary to weigh the cows?

The dry and fresh period of a dairy cow determine production and breeding performance during lactation. The cows with an elevated production performance that go through a post-calving transition phase require more energy than what they consume for milk production (fat) and to maintain weight. Therefore, this animals suffer a considerable energy unbalance which is connected to a high risk of metabolic disorders and other health issues.

Cows in a fresh period, generally start gaining weight and energy balance between a 30 to 40 day period after calving. The cows that don’t accomplish this goals have a higher risk in not reaching their highest peak in milk production and having breeding problems.

For that reason is very important to monitor the body condition changes during lactation with the objective to identify and give early treatment to the cows that are susceptible to metabolic and calving disorders.