The truth about milk fever in cows, its prevention

Some of the livestock been showcased by the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization during an open farmer's day in Naivasha. The research organization has introduced a variety of climate smart fodder in a bid to address the country's deficit that stands at 60 percent. [Antony Gitonga, Standard]

Dear Daktari,

My name is John Njoroge from Matasia in Ngong. I am a dairy farmer keeping Freisian crosses under a semi-zero grazing system. Recently, one of my cows, which is a bit old, gave birth and immediately could not stand up. It also exhibited cold extremities and looked dull. I called my veterinary doctor who said the cow suffered from milk fever. Luckily, it was successfully treated and was back on its feet in no time. What could have led to this condition, and what should farmers do to prevent it?