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Watch: Negative Energy Balance In Dairy Cows

HERD HEALTH SERIES: By Maura Langan, Commercial and Technical Manager (Large Animal) at Norbrook.

Ketosis occurs when the animal's energy intake fails to meet its needs, and the cow begins to draw from her body reserves in a continuous state of negative energy balance (NEB). Some degree of NEB is relatively normal in recently calved cows, but the extent to which it occurs and how long it lasts are key factors in how the cow transitions into productive lactation.

We commonly expect see cases of ketosis in dairy cows in those first days or weeks of early lactation. The cow is unable to match the energy required for the huge metabolic challenges 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.

Maura Langan, Commercial and Technical Manager (Large Animal) at Norbrook.

Clinical ketosis is often the tip of the iceberg and a greater number of cows may be suffering from the subclinical form of the disease. Studies have shown that reduced milk yield, lower milk protein production, increased prevalence of LDAs and ultimately reduced fertility are all associated with subclinical ketosis.

Within every herd, there will be some cows that are more at risk of ketosis than others, with the greatest risk being in fat cows with a BCS of ≥3.5. 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 developing the condition.

The key to successful treatment of these cases is to provide just enough additional energy to break the cycle of ketone production, allowing the cow to recover her appetite 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. Two Ketonor+ boluses given to 'at risk' cows will provide readily available energy sources right when it is needed.

Many vets are now recommending the use of Ketonor+ boluses alongside pain relief (NSAIDs) and antibiotics, where appropriate, in the treatment of common transition cow diseases such as 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.

Visit www.Norbrook.Com for more information.

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