Fernando Diaz
Here we look at the effects of postpartum clinical disease on milk production, reproduction, and culling.
Metabolic and hormonal changes occurring during the peri-parturient period of the lactating dairy cow are both profound and significant.
Transitioning into a non-pregnant, lactating state from a pregnant, non-lactating state results in a massive redistribution of body tissues that involves all major body systems.
It has been reported that up to 60% of lactating cows may develop either metabolic or infectious diseases during the first 60 days of lactation (Bisinotto, 2012).
Costs
Given that potentially 60% of lactating dairy cows may be affected by at least 1 disorder during the first 60 days of lactation, the productivity costs associated with the diagnosis, treatment, labour, and infrastructure represent a significant profit opportunity for the dairy enterprise.
Continue reading this article published in Dairy Global.
