KETOSIS Acetonemia; Ketonemia By: Jonathan O. CHua

KETOSIS It is a common disease in cattle and it typically occurs in dairy cows in early lactation and is most consistently characterized by partial anorexia and depression. The condition is worldwide in distribution but is most common where dairy cows are bred and managed for high production. It is an important clinical and sub clinical disease, as several metabolic disorders and diseases, common in the periparturient and early lactation period including milk fever, retained fetal membranes and displaced abomasums are linked to ketosis. Hypoglycaemia is the major factor involved in the onset and development of clinical signs of ketosis

CLINICAL FEATURES High Glucose demand (Gestation and Lactation) It is an intoxication by circulating ketone bodies and is associated with an energy deficit in early lactation. Typical clinical signs includes anorexia and lethargy (Slow Fever), depressed yields, and constipation, although some cases develop nervous signs such as compulsive licking, salivation, biting flanks or even maniacal behavior. It usually occurs when energy intake is inadequate for output. High Glucose demand (Gestation and Lactation) High Level of Fat Mobilization

COMPARISON

FORMS OF KETOSIS 1. Wasting disease/loss of condition in early/peak lactation Primary ketosis – no other diseases present Subclinical – cows in good condition at calving Cows still eat and productive Affects about 30 – 50% of herd If chronic, will see fatty infiltration of liver Clinical – cows +/- condition at calving Off feed, especially concentrates ↓ milk production Fatter cows – becomes “sicker quicker” Sever Hepatic Lipidosis is possible and can be fatal.

FORMS OF KETOSIS Secondary ketosis – often transient Periparturient disease present - ↓ appetite Hypocalcemia, retained placenta, metritis, mastitis, lameness 2. Nervous Ketosis – CNS signs are seen including circling, staggering and bellowing. - other signs includes licking, chewing, trembling and aggression. - the cause is said to be ↓ in glucose ↑ ammonia

TREATMENT Goal: Restore normoglycemia & ↓ serum ketone bodies. Administration of IV Glucose – 50% dextrose If not pregnant, use Glucocorticoids Decrease the milk production – reduce milking duration for days (only if mastitis is ruled out) Don’t stop supplementation till after cow is normal several days

PREVENTION Nutritional Management Daily Exercise Problem Herds Increased plane of nutrition 2 wks prior to calving Increase energy intake after parturition Adequate vitamins and minerals Daily Exercise Prevent overconditioning Problem Herds Monitor ketone levels in urine and milk Propylene glycol supplement The reducing effect of PG on NEFA, hepatic TG concentrations, and milk fat content indicate that PG increases energy balance of cows in early lactation. Together with the anti-ketogenic properties of PG, this suggests that PG may reduce the risk of subclinical and clinical ketosis.