Milk Fever in Dairy Cows
Milk fever, also known as hypocalcemia, is a metabolic disorder in dairy cows that typically occurs around calving. It is caused by a sudden drop in calcium levels in the blood, which is critical for muscle function and other physiological processes.
Causes:
Calcium Drain During Lactation: When a cow gives birth, the demand for calcium in milk production increases rapidly. If the cow’s body is unable to mobilize enough calcium from its bones or absorb it from feed, blood calcium levels drop sharply.
Poor Dietary Management: Inadequate calcium, phosphorus, or vitamin D in the diet before calving can prevent the cow from properly regulating calcium levels. Low magnesium can also reduce calcium absorption.
Breed Susceptibility: Some breeds, like Jerseys, are more prone to milk fever due to their higher milk output and calcium demands.
Older Cows: Cows that have had multiple calvings are at greater risk because their bodies may become less efficient at mobilizing calcium from bones.
Symptoms:
Muscle tremors or weakness
Inability to stand (cow may collapse)
Low body temperature and cold ears
Difficulty with coordination
Eventually, if untreated, milk fever can lead to coma or death.
Preventive measures like dietary adjustments and calcium supplementation can reduce the risk.
Milk fever, caused by a sudden drop in calcium levels post-calving, can severely impact a cow’s health and milk production. Tranzpro® plays a vital role in not only enhancing udder health and boosting recovery but also in preventing milk fever by ensuring cows maintain proper nutrition and calcium levels.
Administer Tranzpro® 18 days before calving and continue for 36 days after calving.
The recommended daily consumption rate is 50 grams (equivalent to 2 tablespoons) to ensure optimal nutrition and calcium absorption, reducing the likelihood of milk fever.
By incorporating Tranzpro® into your feeding regimen, you not only support cow health but also actively prevent milk fever, ensuring a smoother calving period and healthier lactation cycles.
To learn more about milk fever, click here.
