Determination of the efficacy of monensin capsule (continuous release capsule) on metabolic parameters in transition dairy cows

Abstract

Monensin is an ionophore antibiotic that changes the population of rumen bacteria. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of monensin controlled capsule administered 3 wk before calving on blood metabolites (serum beta-hydroxybutiric acid (BHBA), cholesterol (CHOL), urea, creatinine (CREA), gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), total protein (TP), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg+), calcium (Ca++), glucose (GLU) and plasma non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) concentration) and milk yield in the pre and post-calving term. 50 Holstein-Friesian cows were selected from the same flock. Blood samples were taken 3 weeks before the expected calving date and during weeks 1, 2, 4, 6 and 8 post calving. Cows were divided into two group: a study group (Group M, n:40) and a control group (Group C, n: 10). The group M orally received a cylindrical device (Kexxtone, ELANCO Animal Health, Guelph, ON, Canada) and the group C received no treatment. BHBA and NEFA was lower (P˂0,.05) in group M compared with group C in the 6 and 8 week post-calving. GLU was higher (P˂0.05) in group M compared with group C in the 4 week post-calving. Urea was higher (P˂0.05) in group M compared with group C in the 1 week post-calving. There was no statistically difference between two groups (P˂0.05) in milk yields. Although milk yield was similar in both groups, the change in concentration of BHBA, NEFA, GLU and urea showed that monensin CRC could be as a glycogenic precursor.