Successfully counteracting metabolic disorders: Cal Gel and Keto Gel with improved formulas
29.01.2018
Hypocalcemia and ketosis are the most common metabolic disorders in dairy cows during the calving period. Biochem supports the health and longevity of dairy cows with improved formulas for its Cal Gel and Keto Gel products. The redesigned bottles also ensure easier handling in direct contact with the animal.
The calving period is very important for the health and longevity of dairy cows. Studies show that up to 20 percent of the animals that leave the herd depart in the first 40 days after calving. One reason is that calcium and energy requirements increase rapidly with the onset of lactation while feed intake decreases. Consequently, the animal does not receive sufficient nutrients and energy. This results in typical metabolic disorders like hypocalcemia and ketosis. „In this critical period, dairy cows are more effectively nourished and supported with Biochem Cal Gel and Keto Gel products,“ explains Head of Product Management Marika Ayecke-Thun.
Biochem Cal Gel
The administration of calcium when cows are calving has proven to be an effective prophylaxis against hypocalcemia. This is why two organic calcium sources have been added to the inorganic source in the new Biochem Cal Gel. These organic calcium sources increase the calcium blood level more gradually, making the calcium more usable for the dairy cow. The combination of the different calcium sources ensures a faster, longer-lasting effect on the calcium supply. The vitamin D3 in the product also supports calcium metabolism.
When used as a prophylaxis, Biochem Cal Gel can help alleviate the typical hypocalcemia symptoms. These include hypothermia and cold body surface, thick feces, weakness, poor feed intake, or recumbency. This prophylaxis is primarily recommended because it is estimated that roughly half the animals in a herd will be affected by subclinical hypocalcemia. In these cases, the common symptoms are not present, yet the impact on the health and longevity of the dairy cows is enormous.
Biochem Keto Gel
Similar numbers apply for ketosis, which occurs when feed intake after calving increases at a slower rate than the milk yield. As a result, energy is removed from the fat deposits. Ketone bodies accumulate when the energy supply remains reduced over a long period of time. These accumulations lead to an even greater reluctance to eat, which increases the energy deficit. „Breaking this vicious circle is important. Keto Gel reduces the amount of body fat mobilized,“ explains Marika Ayecke-Thun. Biochem has now increased the level of propylene glycol to make the mobilized fatty acids in the citric acid cycle more usable for energy production. While betaine supports liver function, niacin ensures that less body fat is mobilized and restricts the formation of ketone bodies. Vitamin B12 further improves energy metabolism.
These modes of action are supported by using gel as a dosage form to ensure the active ingredients flow quickly through the rumen. Immediately available to the animal, the effect of the substances can unfold. The ergonomic bottle shape for Biochem gel applications Cal Gel and Keto Gel facilitates safe use in direct contact with the animal. By fully optimizing its Cal Gel and Keto Gel products, Biochem effectively supports the health and longevity of dairy cows.