Investigation of an LDA outbreak in herd with well-targeted dry cow management.

摘要

An outbreak of LDAs on a commercial dairy unit was linked to problems with fresh cow feeding. Feeding increased levels of concentrate in the first few weeks post partum increased milk production and reduced forage and fibre intakes. The high protein concentrate used to complement maize silage raised the overall ration protein content which stimulated milk production but raised the rate of weight loss. In some cows this resulted in fatty liver problems predisposing cows to LDAs and worsening the prognosis. Slowing the rate at which concentrates were introduced post partum to better match the overall intake reduced protein intakes and yields at this stage and reduced the LDA problem.Digital Object Identifier http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.2044-3870.2011.00063.x