Use of a glycogenic precursor during the prepartum period and its effects upon metabolic indicators and reproductive parameters in dairy cows

Abstract

The aim was to evaluate if 1-2 propanodiol plus calcium propionate (glycogenic precursor) supplementation during the transition period in high yielding dairy cows reduces metabolic and reproductive dysfunctions during early lactation. Cows (n=202) where divided into two homogeneous groups regarding number of lactations and body condition score. 1) Treated Group (GG; n=112) received 60g/cow/day 15d of a glycogenic precursor during the transition period. 2) Control Group (GC; n = 90) received no treatment. Postpartum levels of BHB (GG= 0.9±0.2 mmol/L vs GC =1.3±0.2 mmol/L; P < 0.05), and NEFA (GG= 0.6 ± 0.1 mEq/L vs GC = 0.8 ± 0.1 mEq/L; P < 0.05) were higher for GC. Likewise, GC-cows had a higher percentage of retained placenta (23% vs. 13%; P ≤ 0.06) subclinical ketosis (GG = 10%, GC = 56%; P < 0.05), and mastitis (GG = 8%, GC = 16%; P < 0.05). Metritis, dystocia, abortions, clinical ketosis, hypocalcemia and ruminal acidosis showed no differences. Administration of a glycogenic precursor during the transition period demonstrated a positive effect upon BHB and NEFA blood levels during early lactation. Also, levels of subclinical ketosis and retained placenta were reduced.