We are called to examine an animal that is wasting away and not producing milk.
History: a primiparous Holstein that calved about a month ago, normal delivery, normal expulsion of the placenta; milk production was already low from the first days of lactation. The animal received calcium boluses, rumen stimulants, and some IV glucose solutions, but it continues to be lethargic, with feed intake and rumination well below normal.
On clinical examination, we rule out pulmonary or cardiac disease, despite mild tachypnea and tachycardia. Abomasal displacement and uterine or vaginal pathologies are also ruled out.
Ketone bodies are within normal range; hyperglycemia is present.
