Breath Analysis for Early Detection of Rising Ketone Bodies in Postpartum Dairy Cows Classified as at Risk of Ketosis

Ketosis is a metabolic disorder associated with high production and low energy intake in dairy cows. Fat reserves are mobilized, gluconeogenesis occurs. Traditionally, rapid tests for blood, milk or urine used to detect increased ketone body levels case of ketosis. Breath analysis relatively new relevant the development automatic sensor systems early warning. This study aims determine whether when postpartum rise bodies occurs breath elevated blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) cows at risk Postpartum breath, samples were taken daily until day 7, one prepartum sample excluding milk, concentrations determined. Concentrations BHB 0.4–2.6 mmol/L (lab) 0.3–3.1 (rapid test), acetone was 2.3–20.0 ppm, acetoacetate 0–8 0–500 µmol/L. A related that followed by acetone. However, ketotic non-ketotic similar. We conclude rising can be detected urine, but use as an alternative tests, longitudinal sampling needed.