Transition & Metabolic Health
Cows
Ketosis in Dairy Cows — Signs and Feed-Based Prevention
Updated 08 Jul 2026 • By Falah Nutrition Desk, Animal Nutrition Advisor
Ketosis happens when a fresh cow's energy demand for milk production outpaces what she can eat, forcing her body to break down fat too quickly. It typically shows up in the first 2-6 weeks after calving and quietly costs milk, fertility and body condition if missed.
Aam Alaamaat
- Reduced appetite, especially for concentrate feed
- Sweet, acetone-like smell on the breath or milk
- Rapid loss of body condition in early lactation
- Dull, depressed animal despite no obvious illness
- Milk yield plateauing or dropping in early lactation
Mumkin Wajuhaat
- Energy demand for milk production exceeding what the cow can physically eat in early lactation
- Insufficient dry matter intake in the final weeks before and after calving
- Overconditioned (too fat) cows at calving, who eat less and mobilize fat faster
- Abrupt transition from dry-period to lactation feeding
- Underlying issues like retained placenta or metritis reducing appetite further
Kisan Ko Kya Check Karna Chahiye
- Is the cow eating well in the first 2 weeks post-calving? Watch appetite daily
- Was she over-conditioned (fat) at calving? Fat cows are higher risk
- Is feed being increased gradually and correctly after calving?
- Is a high-energy, palatable transition feed used in the first 3 weeks of lactation?
Feed Guidance
Prevention starts before calving: avoid over-conditioning during the dry period using GOKA Dry Feed at the correct quantity, not more. After calving, GOKA Transition +21 provides a dense, palatable energy source designed for a cow whose appetite hasn't yet caught up with her milk output — feed it for the first ~21 days before moving to her full lactation ration like GOKA Amrit or Challenger 8000. Encourage intake with fresh, palatable feed offered often rather than one large daily portion, since a ketotic cow eats less per visit. If a cow shows persistent depression, poor appetite or a sweet breath odor beyond a couple of days, involve your veterinarian — clinical ketosis needs treatment beyond feed adjustment.
Mutalliqa GOKA Products
High Milk-Yielding Cows & Buffaloes
More than 25 liters/day
High TDN feed for fresh & heavy milkers
Pregnant Cows & Buffaloes (Dry Stage)
Healthy dry period, trouble-free calving
Fresh Lactating Cows & Buffaloes
Protects fresh animals from ketosis & weakness
Doctor Se Kab Sampark Karein
For serious symptoms, consult a qualified veterinary doctor. Feed support can help overall nutrition and recovery but should not replace veterinary treatment.
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