Abstract
Introduction. The aim of this study was to determine and compare levels of blood serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium in the peripartal period and during mid lactation in Holstein dairy cattle. Materials and Methods. Blood samples were collected from 12 cows in late pregnancy, 12 early lactation cows, and 12 mid lactation cows. Results and Conclusions. Serum calcium and inorganic phosphorus in blood of dairy cows in early and mid lactation were significantly lower compared to the values in the blood serum of dairy cows in late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of these macro elements by the mammary gland at the early stages of lactation. When the cows were in the lactation period, blood serum magnesium levels were significantly lower compared to the values of dairy cows during late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of magnesium by the dairy cows during lactation. The results show that the homeostasis of the macro elements examined in the blood of transition and mid lactation dairy cows was maintained, suggesting their adequate supply from alimentary sources.
Highlights
The aim of this study was to determine and compare levels of blood serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium in the peripartal period and during mid lactation in Holstein dairy cattle
Serum calcium and inorganic phosphorus in blood of dairy cows in early and mid lactation were significantly lower compared to the values in the blood serum of dairy cows in late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of these macro elements by the mammary gland at the early stages of lactation
When the cows were in the lactation period, blood serum magnesium levels were significantly lower compared to the values of dairy cows during late pregnancy, probably indicating the increased use of magnesium by the dairy cows during lactation
Summary
The aim of this study was to determine and compare levels of blood serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium in the peripartal period and during mid lactation in Holstein dairy cattle. Critical control points to prevent periparturient metabolic disease and improve lactational and reproductive performance were identified as: maximize dry matter intake; provide a properly balanced diet; maintain calcium status, and; minimize immune dysfunction (Van Saun, 2013) These nutrients play a critical role in physiological processes related to health, growth, and reproduction, and in the adequate function of the immune and endocrine systems. Inorganic phosphorus, and magnesium in dairy cows during the peripartal period and lactation reflect metabolism of these macro elements or their supply through feed and their utilization by peripheral tissues, the mammary gland in particular (Ivanov et al, 1993; Taylor, 2009; Djokovic et al, 2014) Their values can differ in cattle for many reasons, among which is the breed (Littledike et al, 1995). The aim of this study was to determine and compare levels of blood serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus and magnesium in peripartal period and during the mid of lactation in Holstein dairy cattle
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
