Difference between revisions of "Ketosis of Cattle"

From WikiVet English
Jump to navigation Jump to search
Line 21: Line 21:
 
==Diagnosis==
 
==Diagnosis==
 
Can often
 
Can often
It is possible to test milk or urine on the farm for the presence of ketone bodies. These are often dipsticks which change colour in the presence of ketone bodies.
+
It is possible to test milk or urine on the farm for the presence of ketone bodies. These are often dipsticks which change colour in the presence of ketone bodies. False positives can occur with these tests and they should be used in conjunction with clinical signs suggestive of ketosis.
  
 
==Clinical Signs==
 
==Clinical Signs==

Revision as of 16:49, 3 August 2010




Ketosis

Also known as: Acetonemia
Ketonemia
See also: Ketosis

Description

Signalment

Occurs in high yielding dairy cows a few weeks postpartum.

Diagnosis

Can often It is possible to test milk or urine on the farm for the presence of ketone bodies. These are often dipsticks which change colour in the presence of ketone bodies. False positives can occur with these tests and they should be used in conjunction with clinical signs suggestive of ketosis.

Clinical Signs

Reduced feed intake is often the first clinical sign to be noted. Other signs include decreased milk yield, lethargy and an “empty” appearing abdomen. Rumen motility is variable, but often hypoactive following reduced intake. Rarely cases present with central Nervous System signs and include incoordination, agression, excesssive licking and chewing and occassionally bellowing.

Additionally ketosis produces a characteristic 'pear drop' smell on the breath of affected cattle.


  • due to excessive loss of glucose in the milk
  • ketones excreted in the milk
  • self-limiting condition

Treatment

Prognosis

References