A number of studies have evaluated potential interrelationships between various disease problems occurring just prior and following calving (periparturient diseases). There are many substantiated direct relationships between milk fever and other disease problems, including dystocia (difficult birth) and left displaced abomasum (LDA). Dystocia was not directly linked to risk of LDA in one survey study, but cows experiencing twin births, retained placenta, or metritis were at higher risk also to have a LDA. These diseases are often associated with dystocia. A primary risk factor for LDA is negative energy balance, or a lack of feed intake. Cows experiencing more difficult dystocia problems most likely would also experience lower feed intake and thus be more predisposed to LDA occurrence.

Robert Van Saun, Extension Veterinarian, Penn State University