Hyperkaluria as a Risk Factor for Periparturient Paresis in Dairy Cows

Case Study of a Herd without a Hypocalcemia Prevention Program

Authors

  • R. Eicher Division Reproduction and Population Medicine, University of Berne, Switzerland
  • M. Settler Bovine Practice, Heimenschwand, Switzerland
  • P. Tschudi Division of Clinical Pathology, University of Berne, Switzerland

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20025085

Keywords:

hypocalcemia, dietary calcium, anionic diets, milk fever, potassium content

Abstract

Periparturient hypocalcemia is one of the main metabolic challenges in dairy cows. Traditionally, high dietary calcium during the dry period was hypothesized to be the major risk factor for periparturient paresis. However, recent research has shown that metabolic alkalosis induced by high potassium in the diet plays a major role in the development of parturient hypocalcemia 1. Therefore, anionic diets are increasingly being used in practice to prevent milk fever. In rations based on forages with high potassium content, anionic diets are problematic because of the quantity of anionic salts needed, leading to a reduction of dry matter intake. The following case report illustrates the influence of a high potassium load on the incidence of milk fever in a herd without a prevention program for periparturient hypocalcemia.

Cover image of the 35th Conference Proceedings: Holstein cows standing in a row at a fence. A small group of cattle are bunched together in a pen. Yellow background.

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Published

2002-09-26

Issue

2002

Section

Posters