How Can I Prevent Hypocalcemia in My Dairy Herd?
Hypocalcemia, commonly known as milk fever, is a metabolic disorder in dairy cows caused by low blood calcium levels. Preventing hypocalcemia is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of your herd.
Causes and Risk Factors
- Dietary Imbalance: Excess calcium in diet pre-calving or poor calcium-magnesium ratio in the diet.
- High-Producing Cows: Increased risk in high-producing cows due to higher calcium demands.
- Age and Parity: Older cows and those with multiple lactations are more susceptible
Symptoms of Hypocalcemia
- Muscle Weakness: Tremors, staggering, and difficulty standing.
- Reduced Appetite: Decreased feed intake.
- Poor Milk Production: Significant drop in milk yield.
- General Lethargy: Lack of alertness and responsiveness.
Preventive Strategies
- Dietary Management: Provide a balanced diet with adequate calcium and a proper calcium-phosphorus ratio.
- Supplementation: Use calcium supplements in fresh cows post calving to meet increased calcium demands.
- Monitor Mineral Levels: Regular metabolic testing to monitor calcium and other mineral levels.
- Manage Stress: Minimise stress and provide a comfortable environment to reduce the risk of metabolic disorders.
For expert guidance and comprehensive metabolic testing services, contact FarmLab Diagnostics.
Our diagnostic solutions can help you manage mineral balance and prevent metabolic disorders effectively.
