Subclinical ketosis: Prevalence and some risk factors in cross breed and imported breed dairy cows in Mosul, Iraq

Abstract

Although ongoing control strategies are attempting to minimize certain metabolic disorders such as hyperketonemia, factors such as genetics, management, environment, and geography still present a potential challenge to the achievement of the desired results. In light of this, this study was conducted (i) to determine the prevalence of subclinical and clinical ketosis based on the concentration of ketone bodies (BHB) using ELISA Kit, and (ii) to examine a number of epidemiological risk factors related to the conditions. From October, 2020 to the January, 2021. A 80 blood samples were collected in a cross-sectional survey in different areas of Mosul. Data included age, management systems, parity, and origin. At the cut-off point ≥1.2-≤ 1.4 mmol / L, the prevalence of subclinical ketosis was 27.5% and for clinical ketosis it was 5%. Results revealed that the animals aged > 3 years were more at risk for subclinical ketosis compared to animals aged ≤ 3 years RR = 2.6471. Multiparous animals were more at risk compared to the primiparous (two or less births) RR = 2.0652. No significant difference between the animals’ origins RR = 0.6863. Indoor and outdoor system animals were more at risk for subclinical ketosis compared to the indoor system only RR = 2.1389. In conclusion, hyperketonemia is prevalent in Mosul. Certain risk factors should be taking into account when planning control programs. Attention should be paid to diagnosis, management, and control of this disease during the risk stage to avert economic loss to the dairy farmers.