The major risk period for DA is 2 weeks before calving through to 2 to 4 weeks postpartum. Cows with displaced abomasums are typically dull, show a marked drop in feed intake (especially of concentrates) and reduction in milk yield, and reduced faeces. The loss of around 50kg of calf and associated fluids from the body at calving leaves a lot of space for displacement. Fat cows will get DA more often due to low intakes prior to calving.

To help prevent displaced abomasums (DAs)

• Encourage high intake and thus gut fill to reach a maximum within 10 days of calving; Adjust dry cow feeding to maximize intake in early lactation.  As a high proportion of DA’s are secondary – something else stopped the cow eating first.  Look at trough space, don’t expect cows to clean up left overs etc.
• Avoid short-chopped forages.
• Step-up parlour concentrate feeding levels gradually to minimise acidosis.
• Minimise stress by keeping cows in established groups, and parlour and cubicle training heifers before calving.
• Excessive amounts of concentrate during the precalving period increase the risk of DA.
• Minimal intake of concentrate during the prepartum period may increase the risk of left DA through failure to prepare the rumen for the subsequent lactation.
• Ensure cows have access to exercise so that muscle tone is maintained.