Ketonemia in dairy goats: effect of dry period length and effect on lying behavior.

摘要: Abstract In dairy animals, a successful transition from one lactation to the next includes minimizing negative energy balance. Cows experiencing excessive balance typically develop metabolic complications following parturition (e.g., ketosis); does are also susceptible before kidding pregnancy toxemia). It is not known what extent provision and length of dry period affect these conditions in does. Furthermore, whereas clinical symptoms include lethargy, behavioral changes resulting ketosis toxemia have been quantified small ruminants. The aims this study were (1) describe relationship between balance, (2) determine if lying behavior indicative status goats. A total 420 on 10 commercial goat farms southern Ontario, Canada, enrolled (mean ± SD: 42±18 does/farm). Each doe was affixed with data logger measure 12 d after kidding. Blood samples collected at least once blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA) concentration as an indicator Does categorized healthy (HLTH; both pre- postkidding BHBA