It is a pretty exciting time in the field of milk fever prevention. New products, new strategies and new research are here – giving dairy producers more options to prevent milk fever and subclinical hypocalcemia. 

During the transition period, cows experience three main physiological challenges: (1) a drop in dry matter intake (DMI) and an increase in nutrient demands, predisposing cows to mobilize fat tissue and enter a negative energy balance, (2) immunosuppression and (3) systemic inflammation.

“We know that how a transition cow completes her transition period really sets her up for her entire lactation,” Dr. Erin Horst, Ph.D., said as she began her presentation about the Best Practices for Transition Cow Success at the recent Great Lakes Regional Dairy Conference. 

Heat stress reduces milk yield and compromises fertility in the dairy cow. This problem is observed across the U.S. and is compounded in the Southern and Southeastern states where summer temperatures are excessive.

Five outcomes necessary to prepare every cow for a successful 305-day lactation.

Longevity is defined simply as: long existence. Dairy farmers must work day in and day out to ensure their cows have a long existence on their farm.

These simple measures of individual tool boxes, pre-measured supplies, checklists to track information, ice water to quickly cool colostrum and leg bands to identify feedings are easy, low-cost ways Birchen Farms implemented to not only improve cow and calf health but also the work environment in one of the farm’s most demanding areas – the just-in-time calving barn.

Research has indicated that intravenous calcium infusion disrupts blood calcium concentrations in the hours following infusion.