The objective of this study will be to confirm the viability of a diagnostic system to predict hyperketonemia (KET) post-partum using a multivariable metabolic index (MI). The research group at The University of Minnesota, in collaboration with Ajinomoto, Inc., developed an MI using metabolic markers measured during the pre-partum period to predict the occurrence of KET during the subsequent lactation in Holstein dairy cows. Hyperketonemia is defined as elevated blood concentrations of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB > 1.2mmol/L) and has been associated with disease occurrence, decreased milk production, reduced reproductive performance, and increased culling rates. Although diet and milk production greatly affect the blood BHB concentration during
early lactation, a recent study showed that abnormal pre-partum metabolic and inflammatory responses increase the chance of developing post-partum KET. Thus, in this study, our research group at Cornell University will help to assess the viability of a diagnostic system that uses the MI previously developed by The University of Minnesota and Ajinomoto, Inc.