INTRODUCTION

Ketosis is a common metabolic disorder of dairy cattle, especially high-producing cows during early lactation. It occurs due to a negative energy balance when energy demand for milk production exceeds energy intake. As a result, excessive fat mobilization leads to increased production of ketone bodies in the blood, milk, and urine, causing reduced productivity and health problems.

HISTORY

Ketosis has been recognized for decades as a production disease in dairy cattle. Became more prominent with genetic selection for high milk yield. Most commonly observed within the first 2–6 weeks after calving. It is a major economic concern due to milk loss, reproductive failure, and increased risk of other diseases. Present worldwide wherever intensive dairy farming is practiced.

ETIOLOGY

Ketosis is caused by energy deficiency rather than an infectious agent.

• Primary cause: Negative energy balance

• Secondary cause: Reduced feed intake due to other diseases

When glucose supply is inadequate, the cow mobilizes body fat. Excess fat is converted into ketone bodies:

• Beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB)

• Acetoacetate

• Acetone

Excess ketone bodies lead to metabolic imbalance and clinical signs.

TRANSMISSION

Ketosis is not a contagious disease.

• It develops due to nutritional and metabolic factors.

• Common risk factors include:

High milk production

Poor feed intake after calving

Inadequate energy density in the ration

Over-conditioned cows at calving

Stress and concurrent diseases (mastitis, metritis, milk fever)

CLINICAL SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Clinical signs vary depending on severity.

Common signs include:

Reduced appetite (especially refusal of concentrate feed)

Sudden drop in milk production

Weight loss

Dullness and lethargy

Sweet or acetone-like smell in breath, milk, or urine

Firm, dry feces

Nervous ketosis (severe cases):

Abnormal licking

Incoordination

Aggression or aimless walking

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosis of ketosis is based on:

Clinical Signs:

Reduced milk yield and appetite post-calving

Laboratory Tests:

• Blood ketone (BHB) measurement

• Milk ketone tests

• Urine ketone test strips

History:

Early lactation period

High-yielding dairy cows

Differential Diagnosis:

Displaced abomasum

Milk fever

Metritis

Fatty liver syndrome

TREATMENT

1) Propylene Glycol / Glycerol

• Oral administration provides a rapid glucose source.

• Helps correct negative energy balance.

2) Dextrose Injection

• Intravenous 25–50% dextrose solution.

• Provides immediate energy and reduces ketone levels.

3) Corticosteroids

• Help increase blood glucose levels.

• Reduce fat mobilization.

4) Supportive

ASHIVITA CATTLE Liquid

PREVENTION AND CONTROL

1. NUTRITIONAL MANAGEMENT

Proper feeding is the most important preventive measure.

• Avoid over-conditioning during late pregnancy

• Provide adequate energy density in transition diets

• Ensure gradual dietary changes around calving

• Supply good-quality forage and concentrates

2. TRANSITION COW MANAGEMENT

• Monitor body condition score (ideal 3.0–3.5)

• Ensure comfortable housing and minimal stress

• Provide adequate bunk space and clean water

3. MONITORING AND EARLY DETECTION

• Regular testing of milk or blood ketones

• Observe early drop in milk yield

• Identify high-risk cows early

CONCLUSION

Ketosis is a significant metabolic disorder affecting dairy cattle during early lactation, leading to economic losses due to reduced milk production, poor reproductive performance, and increased disease susceptibility. Effective prevention relies on proper nutritional management, good transition cow care, early detection, and timely treatment. A well-balanced feeding and management program is essential for maintaining energy balance and overall dairy herd productivity.