what is milk fever in a cow

Milk fever in a cow is a calcium deficiency around calving , also called hypocalcemia or parturient paresis. It usually happens when the cow’s demand for calcium suddenly rises for milk production and her blood calcium drops too low.

Quick Scoop

• It most often occurs within the first 24 hours after calving , though it can show up a few days later.

• Common signs include weakness, trembling, wobbly walking, lying down, cold ears, and not eating ; severe cases can lead to collapse or inability to stand.

• It is more common in older dairy cows and can increase the risk of other problems like ketosis and metritis.

Why it happens

After calving, the cow suddenly needs a lot more calcium for colostrum and milk. If her body cannot release calcium fast enough from diet and bone, blood calcium falls and milk fever develops.

What to do

Milk fever is a veterinary issue and affected cows often need prompt calcium treatment. If a cow is weak, down, or acting abnormal around calving, contact a veterinarian quickly.

Prevention

Common prevention approaches include good dry-cow nutrition, mineral balance, and calcium management before and after calving.