Metabolic Disorders in Dairy Cattle: An Economic Assessment in Uttar Pradesh, India

Abstract

Aim: Metabolic illnesses such as milk fever and ketosis in dairy cattle significantly impact productivity and production efficiency, thereby hindering farmers' ability to enhance their income. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the financial implications of metabolic disorders in dairy cattle, providing critical insights into their economic burden on dairy farming systems. Place and Duration of Study: Kheri district, Uttar Pradesh, 6 months – March 2024 to June 2024. Methodology: A total number of 60 dairy farms were chosen out of which 30 farms were affected by milk fever and 30 by ketosis randomly in Kheri district of Uttar Pradesh. The data on the socio-economic profile of the farmers along with the predisposing factor and the data on direct and indirect economic losses caused by ketosis and milk fever, cost of medicine, cost of veterinary services, cost of supplements and loss in milk yield have been considered. Results: The average total economic loss was found as Rs 1,736.10 per cow and Rs 2,790.25 per cow due to milk fever and ketosis respectively. The factors associated with the economic losses due to ketosis and milk fever was estimated by fitting multiple linear regression function models. Among the eight factors chosen for model definition, the variables, viz., breed of cow (P<0.05), milk yield (P<0.01), veterinary care (P<0.05) and the days of illness (P<0.05) were found to have statistically significant association with the economic losses due to milk fever and Ketosis. Conclusion: Metabolic illnesses such milk fever and ketosis result in higher financial losses since they lower productivity, raise veterinary expenses, and have an impact on market profitability. The relevance of incorporating economic, health and welfare factors into livestock management practices is highlighted by the fact that treating metabolic diseases not only lessens financial costs but also enhances food security and animal wellbeing.