SPRING SUMMER BONUS MAGAZINE 2026

to productivity. Therefore, early detection is thus of cardinal importance so that intervention can happen before clinical ketosis develops. The animals should be monitored closely for signs like reduced feed intake, rapid weight loss, sudden drop in milk production and yield, depression or dullness, abnormal behaviour like nervous signs (tremors, aimless walking), staggering gait, and a characteristic sweet or acetone-like odour on the breath or urine. During the last weeks before kidding, some does may develop swelling in the legs or brisket before any clear signs of ketosis are seen. The body starts using its own fat reserves, which puts strain on the liver. When the liver is under pressure, it produces less of a blood protein that normally keeps fluid inside the blood vessels. As a result, fluid leaks into the tissues and causes swelling, especially in the lower legs. The problem can be made worse by the heavy uterus pressing on blood flow and by reduced movement. Suspicions can be confirmed with simple diagnostic tools (urine ketone strips) or blood tests (BHBA levels) to diagnose whether there are metabolic disorders within the heart. Treatment focuses on immediate energy supplementation to restore glucose availability and reduce ketone body accumulation. Strategic supplementation of energy through an oral propylene glycol drench or molasses-based supplements is common to provide quick energy boosts. Intravenous glucose or dextrose may be required in severe cases, and corticosteroids can help stimulate appetite and gluconeogenesis. Corrective feeding with high- energy, digestible feed and mineral and vitamin supplementation supports overall metabolic health. Fluids/electrolytes or vitamin B injections can be provided in severe cases by veterinarians. It is important to monitor the animal’s recovery and to address any underlying causes as soon as possible. Through good stockmanship, farmers can protect their herds and strengthen the dairy goat industry in South Africa. By proactively preventing ketosis, we safeguard productivity, animal health, and ultimately ensure sustainable and profitable enterprise. The dairy goat industry is growing in South Africa and holds great promise. It offers job opportunities to meet the niche consumer demand. The success of this farming practise depends on good herd management with careful attention to animal nutrition and health. Metabolic disorders like ketosis remain a challenge. It is therefore essential to understand, Nr Item Check ✅ 1 Constant access to clean water 2 Balanced and adequate nutrition 3 Provide energy-rich feed in late pregnancy and early lactation. 4 Offer small, frequent meals. 5 Use supplements when needed (vitamins/minerals) 6 BCS of around 3.0 7 Minimise handling and movement 8 Minimise environmental stress 9 Provide adequate shelter 10 Comfortable housing with clean bedding 11 Strategic deworming before kidding 12 Monitor faecal egg count 13 Regular herd diagnosis to spot ketosis symptoms 14 Urine ketone strips or blood tests 15 Recordkeeping of animal performance Ketosis prevention checklist Table 1: Ketosis prevention checklist Spring/Summer 2026 BONUS www.agribonus.co.za 126