Transition cow clinical forum

Transition cow management has long been acknowledged as a key part of successful dairy cow health and production. It is estimated that around 30–50% of dairy cows suffer a clinical disorder associated with the transition period (LeBlanc, 2010), and the prevalence of subclinical metabolic disease is likely to be even higher. There is currently a renewed focus on transition cow management and nutrition, part fuelled by some recent research findings regarding fat metabolism and the influence of energy supply pre calving (Janovick et al 2011); effects of social stress associated with group changes (Von Keyserlingk et al, 2008); and the influence of body condition score and transition cow management on lameness (Machado et al, 2010). The recent availability of a licensed slow release ruminal bolus containing monensin sodium has provided practicing veterinary surgeons with a new pharmacological tool with which to approach ketosis management. This too has probably stimulated a greater interest in the whole area ...