Effect of High-Dose Vitamin D₃ Injection Prepartum as Prophylaxis of Milk Fever on Bone Metabolism in Dairy Cattle

Authors

  • J. Staric Clinic for ruminants, Veterinary faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, Ljubljana, Slovenia
  • M. Klinkon Clinic for ruminants, Veterinary faculty, University of Ljubljana, Gerbičeva 60, Ljubljana, Slovenia
  • Z. Stojevic Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zagreb, Heinzelova 55, Zagreb, Croatia
  • I. Avbersek-Luznik Splosna bolnišnica Jesenice, Cesta Maršala Tita 112, Jesenice, Slovenia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20114035

Keywords:

milk fever, dairy cattle, parenteral application, calcitriol

Abstract

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.

Cover image of the 44th Conference Proceedings: photo of the skyline of St. Louis, Missouri, site of the 2011 AABP Conference. Yellow background.

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Published

2011-09-22

Issue

2011

Section

Research Summaries 2