Effect of a single-dose parenteral selenium supplement administered to pregnant dairy cows on selenium and iron concentrations and immune status of calves.

Abstract

The study was performed on 21 H-F calves divided into 3 groups of 7 animals each. The first group was composed of calves whose mothers did not receive an injection of Se preparation. The second and third groups consisted of calves whose mothers were administered injections of Se and vitamin E in a single dose of 10 ml and 30 ml, 10 days before the expected parturition date. 24 hours after birth, blood samples were collected from all calves to determine Se, Fe and IgG concentrations and the activity of GSH-Px and GGT. The results of the study indicate that the administration of a single-dose Se supplement to cows in late pregnancy increases Se concentration in calves and promotes passive transfer of immunity from the mother to offspring.