Veterinary Science & Technology

Visual Scoring of Ruminant Body Condition: Trapped in Inaccuracy

Abstract

Akbar Nikkhah

This perspective article raises a global concern on accuracy of body condition scoring (BCS) of ruminants based on visual observations of external fat depts. Recent evidence suggests that low body condition score in a visually and apparently thin animal does not accurately indicated that the animal is truly thin. Visually think looking ruminants may have considerable amount of visceral or abdominal adipose tissues that significantly contribute to hepatic import of fats and unhealthy substrates. Body condition score as a visual indicator of external and subcutaneous ruminant adiposity cannot be relied on accurately to be utilized in effective metabolic management of high-producing dairy and beef ruminants.