Call us now
.png)
Ketosis (acetonaemia) is a metabolic disorder of early-lactation dairy cows caused by a negative energy balance — when the cow's energy demand for milk exceeds her feed intake and she breaks down body fat faster than the liver can process it. Watch for reduced appetite, a sudden drop in milk yield, weight loss and sometimes a sweet, acetone-like smell on the breath in the first two to six weeks after calving. Prevention rests on good transition-cow feeding and energy support; always involve your veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
After calving, a high-yielding cow's energy needs rise faster than she can eat. To fill the gap she mobilises body fat, releasing fatty acids that the liver converts into ketone bodies. When ketones build up faster than they are used, the cow develops ketosis. It is most common in the first six weeks of lactation and often occurs alongside fatty liver, milk fever and displaced abomasum.
Keep cows in moderate body condition (not fat) at dry-off, provide a well-formulated transition ration, and maximise dry-matter intake with comfortable, uncrowded housing and palatable feed. Introduce concentrate gradually after calving.
Energy precursors and a healthy liver help cows ride out negative energy balance. A herbal energy supplement such as MAKAMS Enervex can support stamina and recovery during early lactation, while a liver tonic such as Heprich — with silymarin and choline — supports fat metabolism and helps protect against fatty liver. To compare options, see our guide to the best liver tonic for cattle in India. Use supplements alongside — never instead of — sound nutrition and veterinary advice.
Test fresh cows for subclinical ketosis in the first two weeks, and act quickly on any cow that goes off feed or drops milk suddenly.
Clinical ketosis is a veterinary matter. Treatment aims to restore blood glucose and energy — your veterinarian may use oral propylene glycol, intravenous dextrose and other supportive care. Early intervention gives the best recovery and protects the rest of the lactation. Never delay calling your veterinarian for a cow that is dull, off feed or showing nervous signs.
A sudden drop in feed intake (especially refusing concentrates), a fall in milk yield, weight loss, and sometimes a sweet, acetone smell on the breath or in the milk, usually within the first few weeks after calving.
Avoid over-fat cows at calving, feed a good transition ration, maximise dry-matter intake, and support energy and liver function. Routine ketone testing of fresh cows helps catch subclinical cases early.
No. Ketosis is an energy (glucose) disorder, whereas milk fever is a calcium disorder — though both occur around calving and can happen together in the same cow.
This article is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for diagnosis and treatment.
