Ketosis of Cattle
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This article is still under construction. |
| 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.
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