Effect of High-Dose Vitamin D₃ Injection Prepartum as Prophylaxis of Milk Fever on Bone Metabolism in Dairy Cattle
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20114035Keywords:
milk fever, dairy cattle, parenteral application, calcitriolAbstract
Milk fever (MF) is one of the most important metabolic diseases of dairy cattle, therefore, its control is very important. It is well known that parenteral application of high-dose vitamin D3 before calving can prevent MF in dairy cattle. This practice is in use in Slovenia since 1962. The mechanism of action is by activation in liver and kidneys into hormonal form calcitriol. The main role of calcitriol is activation of active Ca absorption in the intestines. Calcitriol also has an effect on bone tissue. The purpose of this study was to test the effect of a parenteral high dose of vitamin D3 on bone metabolism in dairy cattle.