Related Experiment Videos
Subclinical ketosis in lactating dairy cattle
1Department of Population Medicine, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Canada. tduffiel@uoguelph.ca
The Veterinary Clinics of North America. Food Animal Practice
|October 7, 2000
Summary
Subclinical ketosis in dairy cows reduces milk production and increases disease risk. Effective prevention and monitoring strategies are crucial for herd health management.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Dairy Production
Background:
- Subclinical ketosis is a prevalent metabolic disorder in early-lactation dairy cattle.
- This condition leads to decreased milk yield and elevates the risk of periparturient diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the factors influencing subclinical ketosis in dairy cows.
- To discuss the limitations of current diagnostic tests and the potential for effective monitoring schemes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on subclinical ketosis in dairy cattle.
- Analysis of prevention strategies including nutrition, body condition management, and feed additives.
- Evaluation of cowside diagnostic test limitations.
Main Results:
- Key prevention factors include transition-cow nutrition, body condition scoring, and specific feed additives (niacin, propylene glycol, ionophores).
- Existing cowside tests for subclinical ketosis present practical limitations.
- Development of effective monitoring schemes is feasible and beneficial for herd health.
Conclusions:
- Subclinical ketosis management requires a multifaceted approach.
- Improved diagnostic and monitoring strategies are needed for dairy herd health programs.