A high body condition score is most likely to be associated with which management concern?

• A. Underfeeding
• B. Inadequate exercise
• C. Overfeeding
• D. Mineral deficiency

Answer: (C)

A high body condition score shows the animal stores more fat than is optimal, indicating an energy surplus — energy intake has exceeded energy use. In management terms, this points to overfeeding or too little activity. Excess energy stored as fat can lead to problems like reduced fertility, longer calving intervals, and metabolic issues such as fatty liver or ketosis in dairy cattle, as well as tougher handling due to increased body weight. Mineral deficiencies aren’t typically what raises a high BCS, and underfeeding would lower it. Lack of exercise can contribute to weight gain, but the score mainly reflects energy balance from feeding.