What is milk fever in a cow?

Milk fever, also known as hypocalcemia, is a common metabolic disorder that occurs in dairy cows during early lactation. It is caused by a sudden drop in blood calcium levels, which can lead to weakness, muscle tremors, recumbency, and even death if left untreated.

Milk fever typically occurs within the first few days after calving, as the demand for calcium to produce milk exceeds the cow's ability to absorb calcium from her diet. High-producing dairy cows are at the highest risk for developing milk fever, as they require large amounts of calcium to support milk production.

Symptoms of milk fever in cows include weakness, lethargy, anorexia, dry muzzle, muscle twitching, and difficulty standing. In severe cases, cows may become recumbent and unable to stand.

Treatment for milk fever involves intravenous administration of calcium solutions to quickly raise blood calcium levels. Prevention is key in managing milk fever, and includes feeding a balanced diet high in calcium during the transition period, and monitoring blood calcium levels in high-risk cows.

Overall, milk fever is a serious condition that requires prompt treatment to prevent complications and ensure the health and well-being of dairy cows.