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Ketosis is a condition caused by the cattle being in Negative Energy Balance (NEB), typically around calving when the start of lactation causes energy demands to increase dramatically. If cows don't maintain intakes during this period to keep up with this demand they will start to metabolise fat stores. This process of metabolism results in the production of ketones including BHB (beta-hydroxy butyrate) which we can measure on farm. 

Why is this important?

Ketone bodies are associated with a reduction in milk yield, reproductive performance and impaired immune function. On farm this can lead to increased transitional disease including retained fetal membranes, displaced abomasum and metritis. 
The threshold for an animal being at risk of disease associated with ketosis is 1.2mmol/l of BHB in the blood. Often at this level the cow won't appear sick, but these animals are at higher risk of associated diseases such as metritis and LDAs, as well as having an increased risk of culling. Cows with subclinical ketosis have been shown to give 358kg less milk a lactation, as well as being 50% less likely to hold to the first service. Costs associated with hidden ketosis are estimated at £220 per animal. 

What cows are at risk of ketosis?

While all cows can develop ketosis if conditions around transition and calving are not properly managed, some animals are at significantly higher risk. These cows include:

· Sick    - cows who have been lame or sick in the dry period

· Old     - Lactation 3 and above cows

· Fat     - animals with a body condition score of >3. Often this will include animals that have an extended dry period

· Twins - Cows who are pregnant with twins

Think SOFT. These cows are particularly at risk and should be carefully monitored for signs of ketosis around (and particularly post) calving.  

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