Essential energy in early lactation
Ketosis can lead to a rapid deterioration in body weight and drop in milk yield.
HERD HEALTH SERIES: Maura Langan, Norbrook Veterinary Advisor
We commonly see cases of ketosis in dairy cows around 2 to 7 days calved. The cow is unable to match the energy required for the huge metabolic changes of early lactation resulting in the production of ketones that cause inappetence leading to a rapid deterioration in body weight and drop in milk yield.
Some cows are predisposed to the condition, with fat cows (BCS of ≥3.5) deemed most at risk. However, any cow with additional energy needs during this period, such as those carrying twins, that have had a difficult calving, or a case of milk fever will also be at risk of ketosis.
The key to successful treatment of these cases is to provide just enough additional energy to break the cycle of ketone production, allowing her appetite to recover so that she can match her voluntary feed intake to her requirements. Farmers will be familiar with a range of treatments from energy drinks to boluses or propylene glycol drenches.
Ketonor+ is a 135g bolus to reduce the risk of ketosis that contains propionate as a source of glucose for at risk cows. Ketonor+ is cost-effective, does not contain antimicrobials, has no withdrawal period and is easy to administer in busy seasonal calving herds. The formulation also contains Vitamins A and E, selenium, niacin, cobalt and yeast to support the liver, rumen and immune system.
Many vets are now recommending the use of Ketonor+ boluses alongside pain relief (NSAIDs) as well as antibiotics in the treatment of metritis, mastitis, LDAs and even lameness. The theory being that a reduction of pain and sustained energy levels improves welfare and promotes recovery in sick or convalescent cows.
Vets and farmers are aware that early lactation is a risk period for sickness and disease in all dairy herds. As an industry we’re increasingly adopting technology like collars, tags and boluses that allow us to monitor subtle physiological changes.
Technology can indicate very early changes to rumination, activity and body temperature and is able to alert the farmer before the cow displays any visible signs of disease.
Although it can’t offer a definitive diagnosis, feed intake and energy requirements are so finely balanced in those first weeks that these cows are also at risk of ketosis. In cases like these, early intervention with a Ketonor+ bolus is appropriate.
Of course, this technology is no replacement for good stockmanship and veterinary care, but it can allow for early intervention with supportive therapies and support better clinical outcomes.
Visit www.norbrook.com for more information.
