AI Collars Are Transforming Dairy Farming

Farmers are turning to artificial intelligence to monitor the health and behavior of their cows more closely. New AI-powered collars can detect when a cow is sick, stressed, or eating less — long before visible symptoms appear.

These collars contain microphones and motion sensors that record chewing, movement, and posture. The data is then analyzed by AI models trained to spot subtle changes that signal early signs of illness or poor nutrition.

In field tests across U.S. dairy farms, the technology has shown promise for catching metabolic diseases like hyperketonemia, which often goes unnoticed until milk production drops. Early detection means farmers can treat cows sooner, improving welfare and reducing costs.

Researchers say the goal is precision livestock farming — managing animals as individuals, not herds. Similar systems are already being used to track fertility, feeding habits, and stress, helping farms become more efficient and sustainable.

However, experts warn that AI collars are not foolproof. Each farm’s conditions — such as feed, housing, and cow breed — can affect results, meaning algorithms must be customized. The devices are also costly and require regular maintenance.

Still, many see these tools as a glimpse into the future of farming. With rising labor shortages and pressure to reduce waste, AI could become as essential to dairies as tractors once were to fields.