Prevention of displaced abomasum: Is it just getting the nutrition right?

This paper reviews the risk factors for displacement of the abomasum and discusses means of preventing this condition. Abomasal displacement is a particular problem of dairy cows in early lactation and is associated with periparturient diseases such as retained foetal membranes and metritis as well as ketosis, hypocalcaemia and ruminal acidosis. The condition is considered to be a multifactorial problem that can be largely influenced by periparturient management and nutrition during the dry, transition and early lactation periods. Of particular importance is controlling both clinical and subclinical hypocalcaemia, and ketosis, and maximising dry matter intake during the periparturient period. It is vital therefore that cows approach parturition in a body condition that optimises feed intake, that periparturient diseases are prevented and/or treated promptly, and that palatable feed of an appropriate quality is available at all times.