Preliminary study of urine analysis in pregnant cows: insights for improved herd management

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study aimed to establish a standard urine profile for pregnant cows, commonly seen patients in veterinary clinics. Urine samples from 15 pregnant cows (6 Belgian Blue and 9 Holstein) of various ages were analysed, all showing no clinical signs of urinary tract disease. Samples were collected during preventive check-ups, either by spontaneous micturition or catheterisation. Macroscopic evaluation and urine dipstick tests revealed a mean pH of 8.17 ± 0.49. Moderate glycosuria and proteinuria were detected in two animals. No urobilinogen, ketone bodies, haemoglobin, or traces of blood were found. Laboratory urinalysis provided values (with 95% confidence intervals): osmolarity 493–1110.00 mOsm/l, sodium 52.00–122.00 mmol/l, calcium 1.28–3.98 mmol/l, potassium 76–144.00 mmol/l, magnesium 5.00–8.00 mmol/l, chlorine 40.00–80.00 mmol/l, protein 35.00–104.00 mg/l, glucose 0.40–1.27 mmol/l, creatinine 34.00–76.00 mmol/l, and urea 681.00–2086 mmol/l. These findings present the initial descriptive values of urine biochemical parameters in pregnant cows, emphasising their significance in assessing animal health. This research underscores its relevance by providing fundamental insights into animal health, offering a pathway to enhance agricultural sustainability and address food security, echoing the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 1, 2, 8 and 12.