Related Experiment Videos
[Grass tetany in cattle].
Archiv Fur Experimentelle Veterinarmedizin
|January 1, 1976
Summary
Optimal magnesium supplementation for dairy cows during pasture is crucial. Metaphylactic treatments effectively reduced losses from grass tetany and stabilized serum magnesium levels in affected herds.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Nutrition
- Ruminant Health
Context:
- Grass tetany is a significant concern for dairy farms during the pasture season.
- Low serum magnesium levels (below 1.8 mg/100 ml) indicate a risk of grass tetany.
- Effective metaphylactic strategies are needed to prevent economic losses.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the efficacy of different magnesium preparations for metaphylactic treatment of grass tetany in dairy cows.
- To assess the impact of these treatments on serum magnesium concentrations.
- To provide recommendations for managing magnesium deficiency in at-risk herds.
Summary:
- A study in Potsdam (1970-1975) investigated metaphylactic treatments for grass tetany in 224 dairy cows with low serum magnesium.
- A 25% magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) solution and other preparations (Parevert, Vers. A) were administered.
- These treatments successfully reduced losses from grass tetany and prevented further drops in serum magnesium, even at low dosages.
Impact:
- Metaphylactic administration of magnesium preparations can significantly mitigate losses associated with grass tetany.
- Maintaining adequate serum magnesium levels through supplementation is vital for preventing hypomagnesemia in grazing dairy cows.
- The findings support the recommendation of metaphylactic measures for herds at risk of magnesium deficiency.