Metabolic Diseases Associated with Bovine Ketosis: An Overview

Bovine ketosis is a prevalent metabolic disorder that occurs primarily during the transition period when high-producing dairy cows experience a severe negative energy balance. Elevated concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in subclinical ketosis not only impair liver function and glucose metabolism but also predispose cows to several secondary health complications. This article reviews the major metabolic diseases associated with bovine ketosis, including displaced abomasum, lameness, metritis, reduced milk yield, and poor fertility. Cows with subclinical ketosis (BHB levels between 1.2 and 3.0 mmol/L) have been reported to be at significantly greater risk of developing these disorders. Displaced abomasum and lameness are closely linked to reduced feed intake and systemic inflammation, while metritis results from immune suppression during early lactation. Ketosis-induced hepatic dysfunction leads to decreased lactose synthesis and milk yield, and metabolic stress delays ovulation, impairing fertility. Preventive measures such as improving transition-period nutrition, enhancing dry matter intake, and regular metabolic monitoring are crucial to mitigate these risks. Understanding the multifactorial nature of ketosis and its associated conditions is essential for improving productivity, reproductive efficiency, and overall health in dairy herds.