Ketosis in Cattle

21.2.2 Ketosis in Cattle Ketosis is also called post-parturient acetonemia, crazy acetonemia, dyspepsia or slow-fever. It is usually seen from a few days to several weeks after calving. It is a secondary disease because the animal quits eating due to other causes (e.g. mastitis, metritis, milk fever, retained placenta). This causes the blood sugar levels to decrease. When this happens, most high producing dairy cows begin “burning” fat that is stored in their bodies. Then they may begin showing signs of ketosis. See page 253.

Symptoms:

 The odor of ketones may be present in the breath or urine.

 Anorexia (i.e. will not eat), and constipation.

 Sudden drop in milk production.

 Lethargic, or nervousness and trembling.

 Staggering, inability to rise.

 An underlying problem such as milk fever, mastitis, metritis or a displaced abomasum may also be present.

Diagnosis:

 Based on the symptoms and history.

 Special urine sticks are available that can confirm ketosis. When the stick is dipped in the urine, it immediately turns a specific color.

Treatment:

 Give 500-1000ml of 40% glucose solution IV.

 If the animal improves, then it probably had ketosis. Continue the treatment for ketosis by also giving propylene glycol (200-500 ml orally) daily, for several days.

 Treat any other underlying conditions.

 If the animal does not respond, then re-examine the animal.

Prevention/Control:

 Do not allow pregnant cows to get too fat since this increases the risk of ketosis.