Minerals and Serum Metabolites Profile in Cows Reared on Natural Pastures in a Semi-Arid Area

Abstract

This study aimed to profile minerals and metabolite levels in cows solely reliant on natural pastures. Mineral plays a significant role in cattle production and reproduction. Measures of serum metabolites are good indicators in disease diagnosis and nutritional status of animals. A total of 179 blood samples were collected from cases of cows of different ages and breeds experiencing dystocia (n=50), downer cow syndrome (n=34), vaginal prolapse (n=16), retained placenta (n=13), and abortions (n=69) following reports submitted to the North-West (NWU) Animal Hospital in Mafikeng Campus. Analysis of minerals and serum metabolite were done using ICP-MSand IDEXX Catalyst Chemistry Analyser. The data were coded and analysed using the Statistical Software for Social Scientists (SPSS) version 25. Descriptive statistics were used to show the distribution of the minerals and serum metabolites levels across the reproductive conditions. The results were significantly different at 5% (P <0.05). Low zinc levels were seen in cows with abortions and dystocia. In downer cow syndrome, the levels of iron, magnesium and phosphorus were high. Low Iodine levels were seen in cows with vaginal prolapse, retained placenta, abortion and dystocia. Low phosphorus levels were noted in cows with vaginal prolapse. Significant differences were seen in the concentrations of Urea/BUN, Total bilirubin, Aspartate amino-transferase (AST), ammonia and lipase. The levels of minerals and serum metabolites are significant indicators in cows presenting with different reproductive conditions and could affect production.