Understanding Milk Fever in Cattle: Causes, Prevention, and Treatment

ROJA CHETTRI

Milk fever, or parturient paresis, is a common metabolic disorder affecting dairy cattle. It occurs following parturition, at onset of lactation when demand for calcium for colostrum and milk production exceeds the body’s ability to mobilise calcium.This condition is characterized by a drop in blood calcium levels, leading to muscle weakness, disorientation, and in severe cases, paralysis. ‘Fever’ is a misnomer, as the disease generally does not cause elevated body temperature and instead a low rectal temperature and cold extremities are observed in the cattle. Effective management of milk fever is crucial for maintaining the health of dairy cattle and ensuring a successful lactation period.

 Root Causes of Milk Fever

Milk fever occurs when a cow’s calcium levels drop rapidly, usually due to the increased calcium demand associated with the onset of lactation. The transition from pregnancy to lactation places a substantial strain on the cow’s calcium reserves, and if the animal cannot mobilize calcium from its bones quickly enough, milk fever can ensue. Factors contributing to this condition include:

Calcium Deficiency: Insufficient calcium intake or poor absorption during the dry period can leave cows with inadequate reserves to meet the demands of lactation.

Dietary Imbalance: Diets that are not properly balanced in terms of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium can disrupt calcium metabolism and increase the risk of milk fever.

Genetic Predisposition: Certain breeds may be more susceptible to milk fever due to genetic factors affecting calcium metabolism.

Management Practices: Poor dry period management, including inadequate nutrition and sudden dietary changes, can increase the risk of milk fever.

Measures for Prevention of Milk Fever

Preventing milk fever involves addressing dietary and management practices to ensure that cows have adequate calcium reserves and can mobilize calcium efficiently.

Prepartum Diet Management: Feeding calcium deficient diets 10 days prior to calving forces cow’s body to supply calcium from body reserves, so that when cow is off feed, body is already maintaining it’s own calcium levels –not depending on dietary sources primarily. Also a balanced diet that includes appropriate levels of calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium can help prepare cows for the calcium demands of lactation. Feeding DCAD (anionic salts) during the close-up dry period is much more effective than limiting calcium intake in prevention of milk fever.

Calcium Supplementation: Providing calcium supplements during the transition period can help maintain adequate blood calcium levels and prevent milk fever.

Monitoring and Adjustments: Regular monitoring of cow’s health and adjusting diets based on individual needs can help prevent milk fever. Implementing a comprehensive nutrition plan that addresses the specific requirements of the herd is essential.

Stress Reduction: Minimizing stress during the transition period, including managing housing and ensuring a smooth calving process, can reduce the risk of milk fever and other metabolic disorders.

Effective treatment of Milk Fever

Prompt treatment of milk fever is critical to prevent severe complications and ensure a swift recovery.

Calcium Administration: The primary treatment for milk fever involves administering calcium intravenously. IV Calcium borogluconate (25% solution @ 120-150ml/100 kg BW) is typically given to rapidly restore blood calcium levels and alleviate symptoms. In mild cases oral calcium is used.

Supportive Care: Providing a comfortable and stress-free environment, along with supportive care if necessary, can aid in recovery.

Veterinary Consultation:Consulting with a veterinarian is essential for diagnosing milk fever and implementing an appropriate treatment plan. Veterinarians can also provide guidance on longterm management and prevention strategies.

Conclusion

Milk fever is a manageable condition with the right approach to prevention and treatment. By ensuring proper dietary management, monitoring calcium levels, and providing timely treatment, dairy farmers can effectively reduce the incidence of milk fever and maintain the health and productivity of their herds. Proactive management practices and veterinary support play a crucial role in preventing this disorder and ensuring a successful lactation period.

(Roja Chettri is an undergraduate student of College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Selesih, Mizoram)