Minimizing Subclinical Metabolic Diseases in Dairy Cows

摘要

Subclinical metabolic diseases are common periparturient conditions marked by low calcium, high ketones, and possibly low rumen pH. Subclinical ketosis causes losses through reduced milk, reduced fertility, increased clinical disease risk, impaired immune function, and increased risk of culling. Subclinical hypocalcemia significantly increases the risk of early lactation culling. Maximizing and ensuring consistent dry matter intake is critical through the transition period for prevention of these diseases. Feed additives such as ionophores for ketosis and anionic products for hypocalcemia are important and helpful aids in prevention.