Difference between revisions of "Ketosis of Cattle"
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==Description== | ==Description== | ||
| − | A metabolic disease of adult dairy cattle which | + | A metabolic disease of adult dairy cattle which often occurs in association with another disease but can occur as a primary disease. The exact cause is unknown however the disease occurs when cows are in a negative energy balance and are rapidly mobilising adipose tissue. As a result blood levels of Non Essential fatty Acids (NEFAs) are raised. |
| + | |||
==Signalment== | ==Signalment== | ||
| − | + | Most commonly occurs in high yielding dairy cows a few weeks postpartum. Cows with a higher body condition score are more at risk. | |
==Diagnosis== | ==Diagnosis== | ||
Revision as of 19:29, 3 August 2010
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This article is still under construction. |
| Also known as: | Acetonemia Ketonemia |
| See also: | Ketosis |
Description
A metabolic disease of adult dairy cattle which often occurs in association with another disease but can occur as a primary disease. The exact cause is unknown however the disease occurs when cows are in a negative energy balance and are rapidly mobilising adipose tissue. As a result blood levels of Non Essential fatty Acids (NEFAs) are raised.
Signalment
Most commonly occurs in high yielding dairy cows a few weeks postpartum. Cows with a higher body condition score are more at risk.
Diagnosis
Can often diagnose this condition on physical exam and a history of concurrent disease. 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
Treatment is aimed at restoring normal blood glucose levels. Intravenous dextrose (50%) bolused has been the treatment of choice for years. This often often results in a quick recovery however animals may relapse. Glucocorticoids also act to increase blood glucose but tend to have longer acting effects. Propylene glycol can be administered orally and it acts as a precursor to glucose. This can be administered twice daily.