British Cattle Veterinary Association

Intensive research conducted over recent years has provided new information and enhanced our understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of abomasal displacement in cattle. Although not all aspects of this condition are entirely understood, the main mechanisms have been elucidated allowing us to develop more efficient preventative strategies. Left displaced abomasum (LDA) is considered to be a multifactorial condition mainly affecting dairy cows during early lactation that is influenced by management, housing, nutrition, weather and mechanical factors, as well as concomitant conditions also occurring in the periparturient period. This paper focuses on recent advances in our understanding of the aetiology and pathogenesis of abomasal displacement.