Preventing Milk Fever in Dairy Cows with Calcium Chloride

Table of Contents

Milk fever, also called hypocalcemia, is a common metabolic disease in dairy cows. It usually happens shortly after calving. At this time, the cow’s body suddenly needs a large amount of calcium to produce milk. If blood calcium drops too low, serious health problems can occur.

Using calcium chloride feed grade 94% powder is an effective way to prevent this condition and protect herd productivity.

cow

What Is Milk Fever?

Milk fever happens when a cow cannot maintain enough calcium in the blood after calving. Calcium is very important for:

  • Muscle movement
  • Nerve function
  • Standing and walking
  • Milk production

When calcium levels fall too low, cows may show:

  • Weakness
  • Shaking or unsteady walking
  • Lying down and unable to stand
  • Low body temperature

Severe cases can lead to death if not treated quickly.

Why Milk Fever Happens After Calving

Within 24–48 hours after calving, cows produce colostrum. This first milk contains a high level of calcium. The cow’s body must move a lot of calcium from the blood into the udder.

If the cow cannot release calcium from bones fast enough, blood calcium drops suddenly. This causes milk fever.

High-Risk Cows

Some cows have a higher risk:

  • Older cows
  • High milk producers
  • Cows with previous milk fever
  • Cows fed high-potassium diets before calving

How Calcium Chloride Helps

Calcium chloride is a fast-acting calcium source. It dissolves quickly and is easily absorbed by the cow’s body.

When given at the right time, it helps:

  • Raise blood calcium quickly
  • Support muscle function
  • Reduce the risk of hypocalcemia

This makes it a key tool during the transition period (before and after calving).

Why Choose Calcium Chloride Feed Grade 94% Powder

Fast Absorption

Calcium chloride is highly soluble. It enters the bloodstream quickly and provides immediate calcium support.

Proven Effect

Research shows cows receiving oral calcium chloride have higher blood calcium levels and fewer milk fever cases.

Easy to Use

Feed grade 94% powder can be:

  • Mixed into feed
  • Dissolved and used as an oral drench

Cost-Effective

It is more affordable than many other calcium products, making it suitable for large herds.

Types of calcium chloride

Scientific Support

Studies in dairy science show that oral calcium chloride given around calving:

  • Increases blood calcium levels
  • Reduces milk fever incidence
  • Improves milk yield after calving
  • Supports better reproductive performance

Maintaining proper calcium balance during the transition period is one of the most important steps in dairy herd management.

Practical Use in Herd Management

1. Before Calving

Give calcium supplements to high-risk cows a few days before calving. This prepares the body for the coming calcium demand.

2. Right After Calving

Provide an oral calcium chloride drench soon after calving. This is the most critical time for preventing milk fever.

3. Monitor High-Risk Cows

Watch older and high-producing cows closely. Adjust supplementation if needed.

Benefits of Milk Fever Prevention

Healthier Cows

Cows stay active and recover faster after calving.

Higher Milk Production

Healthy cows produce more milk in early lactation.

Fewer Veterinary Costs

Preventing disease reduces emergency treatments and labor.

Longer Productive Life

Cows with fewer metabolic problems stay in the herd longer.

Conclusion

Milk fever is a serious but preventable problem in dairy farming. Calcium chloride feed grade 94% powder provides a fast, effective, and economical way to maintain healthy calcium levels in dairy cows.

By using calcium chloride at the right time, farmers can reduce disease risk, improve milk production, and increase overall farm profitability.

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