Meet Our Experts - Mark van Kleef

Mark van Kleef is part of our network of experts, read on to hear more about his work.

Mark van Kleef is an independent cattle veterinarian and herd health consultant based in the Netherlands. Through his practice, Klevet Koeienpraktijk, he delivers data-driven advisory services to dairy farmers, focusing on key areas such as nutrition, fertility, transition management, and youngstock rearing. His approach is rooted in collaboration—working side by side with farmers to interpret herd data and develop management strategies that are both practical and sustainable. By remaining independent of product sales, Mark ensures that all decisions are guided solely by what benefits the animals and the farm system as a whole.

A central aspect of his consultancy involves analysing herd performance data and translating it into meaningful, on-farm actions. He believes that good management starts with a deep understanding of the cows’ physiology and the numbers behind their performance. By combining data interpretation with regular farm visits, he helps farmers detect early signs of suboptimal performance, prevent disease, and improve efficiency at every stage of production.

In addition to his veterinary consultancy, Mark is active through FarmLabo, where he distributes and supports the use of BoviLab—a portable blood analysis device designed for on-farm use. This technology enables veterinarians to quickly assess key blood parameters in cows, offering instant insights into metabolic and nutritional status. By integrating BoviLab into herd health programmes, Mark empowers vets and farmers to make faster, more informed decisions, particularly during the transition period—a core area of his expertise.

Mark also dedicates part of his work to coaching young farm successors and training farm staff, with a focus on practical herd management, decision-making, and teamwork. He regularly delivers workshops for farmers and veterinarians on a wide range of topics, often centred on transition management and preventive herd health.

With over two decades of experience as a conventional cattle veterinarian, Mark’s current focus is on enabling farmers to adopt a proactive, preventive approach to herd health. Each advisory visit is an opportunity to strengthen the connection between data, management, and animal well-being.

His philosophy aligns closely with the mission of VetSalus: promoting sustainable, evidence-based livestock production through prevention and collaboration. As a member of the VetSalus network, Mark contributes to an international community of professionals committed to improving animal health and welfare worldwide.

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