Important animal terms glossary

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K

Kennel

A type of pig pen, usually for weaners. A sleeping section with a hinged roof that can be raised or lowered to control temperature and ventilation.

Keyword(s):

Kennel house

A livestock house containing kennels.

Ketosis

Ketosis is a common metabolic disorder in high-producing dairy cows caused by a negative energy balance (NEB) in early lactation (5-30 days post-calving), where energy demand for milk production exceeds intake. Cows break down body fat, releasing toxic ketones (beta-hydroxybutyrate or BHB), causing reduced milk yield, decreased appetite, and acetone-smelling breath.