A review of the prevention, control, and treatment of fatty liver syndrome in dairy cows: from molecular mechanisms to management strategies

Fatty liver syndrome is a major metabolic disorder in dairy cows, occurring predominantly during the transition period when cows face a sharp rise in energy demand for milk synthesis while feed intake naturally decreases. This imbalance creates a negative energy balance, stimulating excessive mobilization of body fat and elevating non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) in circulation. The liver, with limited oxidative and export capacity, accumulates these fatty acids as triglycerides, impairing hepatocellular function and predisposing cows to reduced milk yield, lower reproductive performance, and greater susceptibility to infectious and metabolic diseases. β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) levels serve as an important complementary biomarker for assessing metabolic stress and disease severity. Early detection through routine monitoring of biochemical and metabolic indices supports timely intervention and prevents progression to clinical disease. Preventive programs rely on balanced nutritional management before and after calving, maintaining optimal body condition, controlled energy intake, and supplementation with glucogenic and hepatoprotective additives. Continuous monitoring and trained personnel further reduce the incidence and severity of this condition. Recent studies show that integrating nutritional strategies with managerial improvements significantly enhances production performance and overall herd health.

کلیدواژه ها:

Fatty liver ، dairy cow ، NEFA ، β-hydroxybutyrate ، transition period