Ketosis in Norwegian dairy herds--some epidemiological associations |
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| Authors: | H P Riemann R B Larssen E Simensen |
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| Institution: | Department of Animal Husbandry and Genetics, The Norwegian College of Veterinary Medicine, P. O. Rox 8146 Dep., 0033 Oslo 1, Norway |
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| Abstract: | Ketosis data from the Health Card System, and interview data regarding feeding, housing, management and care were the basis for an epidemiological study in 306 Norwegian dairy herds.Management and care were studied by means of an overall care index. The index was based on 20 questions which provided information about the general standard of management and care. Care was the factor having the most pronounced effect on the treatment rate of ketosis. Highest rates were seen in herds with a high standard of management and care, and lowest rates were seen in herds with a low standard.Most ketosis was found in the mountain valley districts Nord-Østerdal/Gudbrandsdal and Valdres, and least in the lowland coastal district Rogaland. The treatment rate decreased with increasing herd size, and with increasing number of different feedstuffs used. Extra provision of feed concentrates between the morning and evening chores was associated with a lower treatment rate. Also associated with a lower treatment rate was the participation by the farmer’s wife in the daily chores. |
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| Keywords: | disease recording feeding management and care dairy cattle |
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