It should be
noted that blood ketones could also increase because of
fat mobilization, especially during times when energy
requirements for maintenance are not being consumed
(McGarry et al., 1973; Pan et al., 2000). Thus, even
though there is no evidence for this in calves, some of
the increase in blood BHBA levels during weaning may
be attributable to an increase in fat mobilization and
not all due to the amount of starter consumed.