Transition cow clinical forum

Abstract

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 of transition cow management and nutrition amongst practitioners. This clinical forum article reviews some of the key physiological aspects of transition cow management, followed by discussion by experienced dairy practitioners.