Definition: - Milk fever, also known as hypocalcemia or parturient paresis, is a metabolic disorder that commonly affects dairy cows in the early stages of lactation. It is characterized by a low blood calcium level, usually occurring within the first few days after calving.
Etiology:- The main cause of milk fever is hypocalcemia i.e. deficiency of calcium. It is mainly
occurs in high lactating animals and old animals like 5-8 years old animals.
Normal level of calcium in blood is 10mg/100 ml of blood.
But in milk fever it reduce to 3-7 mg/100 ml of blood.
Symptoms :- Mainly
three type of symptoms are found in this disease.
(1) Stage of excitement
(2) Stage of sternal recumbency
(3) Stage of lateral recumbency
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Stage of excitement:-
a.) Excitement
b.) Off feed
c.) Pupil dilated and muscles stiffness.
d.) Generally temp. Normal but sometimes due to excitement
103-104 F
Stage of sternal
recumbency: -
a.)
NO excitement.
b.)
Animal is lying on sternum area.
c.)
Temp. subnormal i.e. Hypothermia.
d.)
Slightly
blindness
e.)
Difficulty in giving I/V due to weal blood
pressure.
f.)
Dullness, Depression, Dry muzzle, cold skin.
g.)
Constipation due to relax muscles of anus.
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Stage of lateral
recumbency: -
a.)
Unconsiousness
b.)
Blood circulation is weak
c.)
Subnormal temp.
d.)
Animal assume lateral recumbency.
e.)
Tympany & death within 12-24 hours if not
treated.
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Diagnosis:-
1.)
By history and symptoms (milk yield, time of
parturition, sudden onset of colostrum/Milk.
2.)
Blood examination – hypocalcemia.
Treatment: -
1The treatment of milk fever in cattle typically involves administering calcium to correct the low blood calcium levels. There are several methods commonly used to treat milk fever:
Calcium Gluconate or Calcium Borogluconate Injection: Intravenous administration of calcium gluconate or calcium borogluconate is the most effective and immediate treatment for milk fever. It rapidly raises blood calcium levels and helps restore normal muscle function. The dosage and administration should be performed by a veterinarian, as incorrect administration can lead to complications.
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Subcutaneous Calcium Injection: In some cases, subcutaneous administration of calcium may be used as an alternative to intravenous injection. Calcium borogluconate is typically given in this manner. Although not as rapidly effective as the intravenous route, it can still help restore calcium levels over time.
Oral Calcium Supplements: Once the cow is able to swallow and has regained some appetite, oral calcium supplements can be administered. These supplements often come in the form of drenches, gels, or boluses. They provide a slower but sustained release of calcium to maintain blood calcium levels.
Supportive Care: In addition to administering calcium, supportive care is crucial for the cow's recovery. This may include providing warmth, proper bedding, and ensuring access to fresh water and palatable feed. Encouraging the cow to stand and walk can also aid in muscle function recovery.
It is important to consult a veterinarian for the diagnosis and treatment of milk fever. They can assess the severity of the condition and provide appropriate treatment based on the individual cow's needs. Additionally, prevention strategies such as proper nutrition, balancing dietary calcium and phosphorus ratios, and monitoring calcium levels in the prepartum period can help reduce the risk of milk fever in dairy cows.
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