Publications

(Pronounced "yo-knees" or in some regions of the UK – John's) Johne's disease or JD is a chronic enteritis of cattle (and sheep) caused by Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis or MAP. The bacteria infect the lining of the intestines and reduce its capacity to absorb fluid and nutrients. The main clinical signs of JD are progressive weight loss and chronic green bubbly diarrhoea. Due to regular screening and culling of MAP infected cattle, clinical Johne's disease is rarely seen on farm. This Insight publication looks at the spread of Johne's on farm and what measures can be introduced to reduce or eliminate the risks.

Parasites, both ectoparasites (external parasites) and endoparasites (internal parasites) can be a major cause of disease in dairy cattle. They will not only contribute to poor animal health and welfare, but ultimately they will impact productivity; through reduced appetite and feed intake. Gut worms in particular will impact nutrient utilisation leading to poor feed efficiency, affecting liveweight gains, and milk production in lactating stock. Historically, control of parasites has largely been through the use of chemicals, such as anthelmintics, flukicides, and ectoparasiticides. This DAIRY insight is the first in a two part series exploring the control of parasites without using chemicals for a more sustainable farming business

For a heifer or cow to reach their full production potential, a good calving is essential. They are less likely to suffer from problems post calving such as metritis, ketosis and displaced abomasum, as well as returning to heat and getting back in calf more quickly. For staff, a good calving is a positive experience and impacts less on precious time, as there are fewer consequences such as weak calves and sick cows to deal with. This DAIRY insight explores difficult calvings and when and how to assist.

Yeasts have the potential to help rumen health, aid forage digestion and boost yields. However, before reaching for the bag, it's essential diets are balanced and delivered correctly and return on investment is carefully assessed. This DAIRY insight explores the uses of yeasts, when to use them and the key things to consider before feeding them.

Milk fever (or hypocalcaemia) is a potentially fatal metabolic disorder where dairy cows experience calcium (Ca) deficiency. With the estimated economic cost per case between £200 to £250, this DAIRY insight looks at symptoms, investigates risk factors and highlights key areas to consider when managing milk fever.

Careful monitoring of the performance and health of freshly calved cows will help to achieve expected lactation yields. Particular attention should be paid to cows who are "at risk" of having problems post calving. Monitoring their health and providing early treatment where necessary will improve whole herd performance. This insight covers: Knock-on effects post calving […]

Every clinical case of mastitis costs around £290. Currently the top 25% of farmers achieve 22 mastitis cases per 100 cows, while the group average is 41 cases per 100 cows (Kingshay Dairy Costings Focus 2017). These 19 fewer cases achieved savings of £5,510 through reduced treatment costs and increased milk sales. Keeping good mastitis […]

Body Condition Scoring (BCS) is a simple and effective farm management tool. It is a measure of body fat/energy reserves, that can be used to aid decisions or troubleshoot issues as they arise. The fine tuning of nutrition throughout the lactation and dry period improves the overall nutritional status of the herd, leading to improved […]

Ketosis is one of the most significant 'hidden' diseases affecting the UK dairy herd. Around 30% of cows are estimated to develop the metabolic disease during the transition period at a cost of about £200 a case. This Farming Note focuses on causes, diagnosis, testing and treatment. Issued August 2017 About Kingshay Farming Notes […]