transition cow Ca

[farmboy1]

Have been feeding my transition cow group an anionic ration (-7.3 meq/ 100g dry matter) and having good success with the primary motivator- retained placentas. Have had the odd fresh cow lately showing clinical and sub-clinical signs of low calcium. I have been feeding a ration to supply 160g calcium daily (assuming intakes are as calculated). I have to assume an intake or absorption problem so have gone to 175g. How high are the rest of you going on calcium? Thanks, FB1

[danielscothorn]

Several questions arise related to your comments. Firstly, what is your source of anion? Anions are not equally effective in reducing metabolic pH. Cl is the best, followed by P (50% of Cl effect), followed by S (25% of Cl effect). Secondly, the best indicator of anion effectiveness is urine pH, are these performed and what are the results? Lastly, the traditional equation used for DCAD (Na, K, Cl & S), has been further refined to include Ca, Mg & P, based on research by Jesse Goff. Therefore, if you use the older equation, it may not be accurate, especially if using S as the anion. Considering the high amount of Ca stored in tissue and bone, an addition of Ca to the diet will not improve Ca status, for the animal can easily draw from reserves. 160g is plenty. I typically include 1.2% (about 120-150g). Also, the DCAD balance will not directly affect rates of RP. Call to further discuss, Daniel Scothorn, 902-896-0277, Ruminant Specialist, ADIL

[farmboy1]

ration delivers: 170g Ca,48P,43Mg, 123K,30Na,136Cl,38S
Urine ph- 6-6.5
DMI- on paper 10.38 Kg
BCS- 4
ration consists of hay (freechoice),2.54Kg DM TMR,2.44 Kg DM HMEC, .21KG DM roasted beans, 1.81 KG. DM anionic supplement, 40g limestone, 10g Magox, 30 g AmChloride
Intakes are good, and problems are minimal. I'm just looking for a little tweak to try to avoid the odd cow ( 3rd lactation & older) that seems to have a slight Ca problem @ calving.

[danielscothorn]

Sounds like you have everything well controlled, good to see the urine pH's are monitored. Try moving the cows onto this diet 1/2 week earlier, this will allow more time for bone demineralization.

[farmboy1]

Currently on transition diet for 21 days. If anything, some of the cows are overconditioned (too little prod'n from the diet- another topic). Would 3.5 weeks lead to even more of an overconditioning prolem? FB1

[danielscothorn]

Yes, the extra .5 wk on the transition is added energy, however, will not significantly affect body condition. Try rumensin dietary or boluses in over conditioned cows, the bolus is approved to alleviate ketosis (related to over conditioned cows). One group TMR? Your transition challenges may be related to over conditioned cows. This problem should be addressed if those cows are problematic at calving. Please give details of your lactating program.