For some farms, calving season is just about to start. A busy period, but also a crucial time to keep a close eye on fresh cows. Ketosis is a common risk in early lactation, often caused by a negative energy balance after calving. Lely Horizon can support during this busy time with early detection through the Ketosis Advice.
The ketosis model runs every 4 hours and filters cows based on key parameters such as:
- Lactation days between 5–60
- No abnormal milk parameters, like a high conductivity, high cell count, or deviating milk colours (colostrum, watery or blood)
- Increased fat/protein ratio
- A drop in milk yield compared to her expected lactation curve
- Behavioural changes in rumination or eating time
If a cow meets these criteria, Horizon flags her as a potential ketosis case. So what can you do with this advice? A quick tip: route cows with an advice in the evening so they can be checked first thing in the morning. When checking the cow in the morning, verify the advice yourself by assessing her health and if possible, a BHB check. If signs of ketosis are present, treat her accordingly with an intervention that suits your farm, for example propylene glycol, a drench, or a bolus. But make sure to always visually check the cow and verify the advice before treating her.
How do you act on this advice?
