Risk Factors Linked to Negative Energy Balance in Dairy Cows During Transition Period

Negative energy balance (NEB) is a significant metabolic issue in dairy cows during the transition period, leading to reduced milk production, lower body condition scores, and higher reproductive disorder risks. This study investigates the association between agro-ecological conditions, dairy cow management practices, and NEB by analyzing milk fat-to-protein ratio (FPR) in smallholder dairy systems. The milk FPR serves as an indirect indicator of energy balance, with elevated values signaling increased fat mobilization linked to NEB.

Originally published by gnews