The objective of this study was to evaluate the correlation between serum calcium (Ca)and inorganic phosphorus (IP)values and urine pH of cows fed common rations without the addition of anionic salts in late pregnancy.One hundred and seven Holstein cows, having completed two or more lactations and with an expected calving date within the next seven days were selected from two herds. In order to determine levels of serum Ca and IP and urine pH,blood and urine samples were collected seven to one days before parturition.Of the 107 sampled cows,17 developed recumbency after calving and were considered to be a ffected by milk fever.There were signi ficant (p <0 :01)negative correlations between urine pH and serum Ca,IP and the ratio of Ca to IP,The urine pH,and levels of serum Ca and IP measured within 48 h prior to parturition di ffered signi ficantly (p <0 :001)between recumbent and non- recumbent cows. The sensitivity,speci ficity,positive and negative predictive values of urine pH test 48 h prior to parturition,using a cut o fflevel of above pH 8.25,were 100%,81%,55%,and 100%,respectively.These signify that monitoring urine pH within 48 h prior to par- turition is a sensitive method to assess the risk of parturient paresis.The results of this study emphasize the importance of acid –base status of the animal in the pathophysiology of milk fever.

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