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Metabolic disorders in cattle

- Etiology of milk fever

Milk fever occurs when calcium homeostasis mechanisms fail to respond quickly to the sudden calcium drain into milk.

Main causes:

1.    Sudden calcium demand at parturition

2.    Reduced calcium mobilization from bone

3.    Insufficient intestinal calcium absorption

4.    Improper dry cow nutrition

Predisposing factors:

  • High milk production
  • Older cows (3rd lactation and above)
  • High calcium diet during dry period
  • Low magnesium levels
  • Metabolic alkalosis
  • Lack of exercise
  • Obesity
  • Breed susceptibility (Jersey > Holstein)