Colostrum Yield Research Articles

Effects of pre- and postpartum dietary fat sources (soybean oil versus linseed oil) on lactation performance and blood metabolites in transition dairy cows

This study investigated the effects of supplementation with two calcium salt fatty acid sources (soybean oil (CaSO) and linseed oil (CaLN)) before and after parturition on lactation performance and blood metabolite profiles in dairy cows. A study was conducted with twenty-four multiparous Holstein cows (parity = 3.12 ± 0.9 and Backfat thickness = 21.77 ± 1.98) that were divided into a 2 × 2 factorial design 21 days before expected calving. The aim was to investigate the interplay between prepartum (CaSO or CaLN, at 2 % of dry matter) and postpartum (at 1.4 % of dry matter) fat supplementation on lactation performance and blood metabolite profiles. Initially, cows were grouped according to the source of prepartum fat (either CaSO or CaLN, with 12 cows in each group). Postpartum, these groups were further subdivided according to whether the fat source was administered continuously (LN-LN, SO-SO) or alternately (LN-SO, SO-LN) over a 28-day period. This resulted in four different treatment groups, each with six cows. The fat supplements contained 84 % fat and 9 % Ca. No statistically significant differences were found in dry matter intake (DMI), colostrum yield or most concentrations of blood metabolites (insulin, cholesterol, glucose, triglycerides, total protein, albumin, β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and urea-N). However, cows fed CaSO prepartum had a significantly higher plasma concentration of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) than cows fed CaLN. Cows fed CaSO had higher backfat thickness (BFT) from day −21–0 than those fed CaLN (P = 0.05). Notably, cows in the SO-SO group lost the most weight, while cows in the SO-LN group lost the least, especially on days 21 and 28 postpartum (P = 0.05). Switching from soybean oil prepartum to linseed oil postpartum (SO-LN) significantly increased milk production in the first 28 days of lactation compared to other diets. In addition, the fat content in milk was influenced by the type of fat supplementation prepartum, with cows receiving CaSO having a lower milk fat percentage than those receiving CaLN (P < 0.05). The results on blood parameters suggest potential benefits of the SO-LN diet for postpartum cows, as emphasized by stable BHB concentrations and the highest IGF-1 concentrations, especially without the elevated BHB concentrations typically associated with the SO-SO diet. The blood concentrations of total protein, urea-N, triglycerides and NEFA were not affected by the treatments. Also, the dietary change did not adversely affect liver function, as shown by unchanged AST and ALT concentrations. Therefore, the results suggest that a dietary intervention involving the administration of soybean oil prepartum and switching to linseed oil postpartum (SO-LN strategy) has the potential to improve milk yield during the early lactation period.

Effects of solute carrier family 27 member 1 (SLC27A1) genotypes on fat content and major fatty acids in colostrum and milk from Murrah and “Murrah × Carabao” crossbred buffaloes

This study analyzed the effect of Solute carrier family 27 member 1 (SLC27A1) genotypes on fat content and major fatty acids (lauric acid C12:0, myristic acid C14:0, palmitic acid C16:0, stearic acid C18:0, and oleic acid C18:1n-9) in milk and colostrum of 46 Murrah and “Murrah × Carabao” crossbred buffaloes at the Philippine Carabao Center - University of the Philippines Los Baños dairy herd. The SLC27A1 genotypes (CC and CT) were determined by the polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method using DNA extracted from hair follicles. This study found polymorphism in the SLC27A1 gene that were consistent with Hardy Weinberg’s law of equilibrium (HWE), with a polymorphic information content (PIC) and heterozygosity (H) estimate of 0.2915 and 0.3542, respectively, for Murrah; and 0.3219 and 0.4032, respectively for “Murrah × Carabao” crossbreeds. In Murrah buffaloes, the CT genotype was significantly associated (P&lt;0.05) with higher colostrum yield and milk fat content, compared to CC. In “Murrah × Carabao” crossbreds, CT was associated with higher C12:0, C14:0, and C16:0, but lower C18:1n-9 in colostrum; and lower C16:0 in milk compared to CC. This study showed polymorphisms in SLC27A1 genotypes and their significant effects on colostrum yield and milk fat content in Murrah buffaloes and some major fatty acids in colostrum and milk from “Murrah × Carabao” crosses.

109 Dam and calf influences on colostrum yield and quality in beef cattle

Abstract To determine factors affecting colostrum yield and quality, data from 148 cow-calf pairs over 6 experiments were combined. In each experiment, single rear quarter colostrum yield was obtained post-calving but pre-suckling. Colostrum IgG was determined by ELISA, and colostrum lactose, triglycerides (as a measure of total fat), and protein were determined by colorimetric analyses. Total IgG and nutrients were calculated as the concentration multiplied by single-quarter yield. Calf birth weight and expelled placental dry weight were also collected post-calving. Mixed linear models (experiment as a random effect) were used to determine the effects of dam age (primiparous: 2 yr, young: 3 to 4 yr, mature: ≥ 5 yr), dam peripartum body condition score (BCS; thin: &amp;lt; 5, moderate: 5 to 5.99, fleshy: ≥ 6), and calf sex on colostrum yield (single-quarter colostrum weight) and quality. Pearson correlation coefficients were also determined for colostrum yield with dam pre-calving body weight (BW), calf birth weight, calf birth weight relative to dam BW, whole placental dry weight, and gestation length. Mature dams had the greatest (P ≤ 0.03) and primiparous dams had the least (P ≤ 0.001) colostrum yield and total lactose. Colostrum from primiparous dams had greater (P = 0.03) IgG concentration than mature and greater (P ≤ 0.001) protein concentration than young and mature. Mature dams had greater (P ≤ 0.02) total IgG, total protein, and total triglycerides compared with both primiparous and young. Colostrum yield was less (P ≤ 0.04) for thin than moderate and fleshy dams. Total IgG was unaffected (P = 0.11) by dam BCS; however, thin dams had greater (P ≤ 0.04) IgG concentration than moderate and fleshy. Lactose concentration and total lactose were less (P ≤ 0.02) in colostrum from thin compared with moderate dams. Protein concentration was greater (P = 0.001) in thin than moderate dams, but thin dams had less (P ≤ 0.02) total protein compared with moderate and fleshy. Dam BCS did not affect (P ≥ 0.59) colostrum triglyceride concentration or total triglycerides. Colostrum yield and quality were not affected (P ≥ 0.22) by calf sex. Pre-calving dam BW was positively correlated with colostrum yield (r = 0.46, P &amp;lt; 0.001). Colostrum yield was also positively correlated with calf birth weight (r = 0.31, P &amp;lt; 0.001) and whole placental dry weight (r = 0.26, P = 0.007), but tended to be negatively correlated with calf birth weight relative to dam BW (r = -0.14, P = 0.09). Gestation length had no relationship (P = 0.31) with colostrum yield. Overall, colostrum yield and quality are negatively affected in young and thin beef dams. In addition, both dam and calf weight have positive relationships with colostrum yield, likely mediated by endocrine action associated with placental size.

111 Factors affecting transfer of passive immunity in beef calves

Abstract Data from 9 calving experiments were used to investigate relationships of dam, calf, and colostrum factors with passive transfer in beef calves. Serum was collected at 48.33 ± 1.25 (SD) h of age for 313 calves, and single rear quarter colostrum yields were determined pre-suckling for dams of 117 calves. Serum and colostrum IgG concentrations were determined by ELISA. Relationship of serum IgG with colostrum variables was determined using Pearson correlation coefficients. Serum IgG was positively correlated (P ≤ 0.002) with colostrum IgG (r = 0.47) and protein (r = 0.45) concentrations and colostrum total IgG (r = 0.28) but tended to be negatively correlated (r = -0.17, P = 0.06) with colostrum yield. Based on passive transfer thresholds in the literature, 3 calves (0.96%) had &amp;lt; 8 mg/mL serum IgG, 16 calves (5.1%) &amp;lt; 16 mg/mL, and 43 calves (13.7%) had &amp;lt; 24 mg/mL. For this analysis, calves with serum IgG &amp;lt; 24 mg/mL at 48 h were considered to have failure of passive transfer (FPT). Continuous variables (dam BW and calf size, 48-h serum chemistry panel, and time to stand) were compared for FPT versus non-FPT calves using a mixed model with FPT class (fixed effect) and experiment (random effect). Calves with FPT had less (P ≤ 0.03) circulating triglycerides, glucose, calcium, magnesium, total protein, globulin, and gamma-glutamyl transferase but greater (P ≤ 0.001) circulating non-esterified fatty acids, sodium, chloride, and total bilirubin than non-FPT. Effects of categorical variables on calf 48-h serum IgG were determined using separate mixed models with variable (fixed) and experiment (random). Primiparous dams gave birth to calves that had less (P = 0.05) serum IgG at 48 h than multiparous dams. Calves born to moderate dams (BCS = 5) had less (P = 0.007) serum IgG than those born to fleshy dams (BCS ≥ 6) and tended to have less (P = 0.08) serum IgG than calves born to thin dams (BCS &amp;lt; 5). Calf sex, calving season, calving difficulty score, and vigor score at 10 min did not affect (P ≥ 0.19) serum IgG. Relationships of calf 48-h serum IgG with continuous variables was also determined using Pearson correlation coefficients, and only r ≥ 0.20 or ≤ -0.20 are reported. Serum IgG was positively correlated (P ≤ 0.005) with 48-h serum total protein (r = 0.75), globulin (r = 0.76), gamma-glutamyl transferase (r = 0.32), and potassium (r = 0.20). Serum IgG was negatively correlated (P &amp;lt; 0.001) with gestation length (r = -0.22) and 48-h serum albumin (r = -0.43), sodium (r = -0.24), and total bilirubin (r = -0.27). Overall, beef calves in this dataset generally had successful passive transfer that was associated with several dam, calf, and colostrum factors.

Effect of close-up metabolizable protein supply on colostrum yield, composition, and immunoglobulin G concentration and associations with prepartum metabolic indicators of Holstein cows

The prepartum diet as well as individual metabolic status of the cow influences colostrum parameters. The objectives of this study were to 1) investigate the effect of increasing prepartum dietary MP supply on colostrum yield, composition, and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration, and 2) identify prepartum metabolic indicators associated with these outcomes. Multiparous Holstein cows (n = 96) were blocked by expected calving date and randomly assigned to 1 of 2 prepartum diets formulated to contain a control (CON; 85 g of MP/kg DM; 1,175 g of MP/d) or high (HI; 113 g of MP/kg DM; 1,603 g of MP/d) level of MP starting at 28 d before expected calving. Both prepartum diets were formulated to supply Met and Lys at an equal amount of 1.24 and 3.84 g/Mcal of metabolizable energy (ME), respectively. Metabolic indicators were determined in serum (albumin, glutamate dehydrogenase, cholesterol, aspartate transaminase, total protein, total bilirubin, and IgG) or plasma (Ca, glucose, fatty acids, BHB, and urea nitrogen) twice weekly in a subset of cows (n = 60). Colostrum was harvested at 3.6 ± 2.4 h from calving and yield as well as concentrations of IgG, fat, protein, and Ca were determined. Cows were retrospectively grouped based on the typical volume of colostrum needed for 2 colostrum meals (<6 or ≥ 6 kg), IgG concentration (<100 or ≥ 100 g/L), as well as the median concentrations of fat (<4.4 or ≥ 4.4%), protein (<16.5 or ≥ 16.5%), Ca (<0.21 or ≥ 0.21%), and total colostrum ME (<8.65 or ≥ 8.65 Mcal). Data were analyzed using mixed effects ANOVA, with repeated measures where applicable. Feeding HI tended to increase colostrum yield in cows entering parity 2 (9.4 vs. 7.2 ± 0.9 kg), but treatment did not affect yield from cows entering parity ≥3 (5.1 vs. 6.4 ± 1.0 kg). Supply of MP did not affect concentrations of IgG, fat, protein, or Ca. Cows that produced ≥ 6 kg vs. those producing <6 kg of colostrum had lower plasma concentrations of glucose. Metabolic indicators were not associated with IgG group. Colostrum fat ≥4.4% was associated with cows having lower prepartum concentrations of glucose, total protein, albumin, and aspartate transaminase activity. Colostrum protein ≥ 16.5% was associated with lower circulating serum IgG and elevated cholesterol. Elevated glucose as well as lower cholesterol and BHB concentrations were associated with colostrum Ca ≥ 0.21%. Further, higher albumin and fatty acids as well as lower glucose concentrations were associated with a greater colostrum energy output. In conclusion, increasing prepartum MP supply tended to increase colostrum yield in cows entering parity 2, but did not affect the composition or IgG concentration. The observed associations between metabolic indicators and colostrum parameters suggest that slight adjustment in metabolism during late gestation might be necessary to support colostrogenesis, but the causality of these relationships should be considered.

Colostrum Yield and Colostrum Suckled by Neonatal Buffalo Calves

The colostrum production by buffaloes during 12 h after post birth was measured in three intervals within 2 h after birth, 2 to 6 h after birth, and 12 h after birth, by weigh-suckle-weigh method and hand milked colostrum measured in measuring cylinder. Average colostrum suckled by neonatal calf of having average body weight 27.93 kg in first feeding at 2 h, 2nd feeding at 6 h and 3rd feeding at 12 h after birth were 275.63 mL, 413.13 mL and 656.31mL respectively and average total colostrum suckled by neonatal calves at 6 hours after birth calving and total colostrums suckled in 12 h after birth were 688.76 mL and 1345 mL respectively, with a total yield of 4112 mL of colostrum (suckled plus hand milked) equal to 14.72 % of body weight of the calf. It was found that the total colostrums yield at 6 h and 12 h of after birth (including hand milked and colostrums suckled) were 2252.40 mL and 1867.63 mL, respectively. It was recorded that, average colostrums suckled (per cent of body weight of calf) at 2 hours in first feeding, at 6 hours in 2nd feeding and at12 hours in 3rd feeding of after birth were 1.26, 1.47, and 2.46, respectively and average total colostrums suckled (per cent of body weight of calf) at 6 h after birth (including 1st feeding and 2nd feeding) and at 12 h after birth (includes all three feedings up to 12 h after birth) were, 2.34 and 6.68, respectively.

Effect of oxytocin use during colostrum harvest and the association of cow characteristics with colostrum yield and immunoglobulin G concentration in Holstein dairy cows

Our objectives were to determine the effect of oxytocin use during colostrum harvest on colostrum yield and IgG concentration in Holstein dairy cows on a commercial dairy in New York and to describe associations of cow characteristics with these outcomes. Animals were enrolled between July and October 2023 using a randomized block design, with day of enrollment as the unit of randomization. A median (range) of 10 (3-19) cows were enrolled per day. Treatments were (1) 40 IU oxytocin (OXY40), (2) 20 IU oxytocin (OXY20), and (3) an untreated control group (CNTR). Oxytocin was administered i.m. ∼45 s before unit attachment in a rotary parlor. Colostrum weight was measured using the colostrum bucket-embedded scale or a platform scale when the yield was less than the smallest bucket scale. The concentration of IgG ([IgG]) in colostrum was determined using radial immunodiffusion and used to calculate total IgG, and DM (%) was determined by oven drying. Individual cow characteristics such as parity, calf sex, weight, dystocia score, stillbirth, and milk production in wk 4 of lactation; additionally, for multiparous cows, dry period length and previous lactation dry-off linear SCS were collected. Data were analyzed separately for primiparous and multiparous cows using backward stepwise elimination. To produce final mixed effects ANOVA models, primiparous cows (n = 201) were randomized to 35.8% (n = 72) OXY40, 32.8% (n = 66) OXY20, and 31.3% (n = 63) CNTR. Multiparous groups (n = 435) were randomized to 34.7% (n = 151) OXY40, 29.7% (n = 129) OXY20, and 35.6% (n = 155) CNTR. The median (range) colostrum yield was 6.0 (0-20.6) kg and [IgG] was 98.5 (0.1-293.6) g/L in the study population. In primiparous cows, OXY40 had a higher colostrum yield (LSM [95% CI]) of 5.4 (4.9-5.9) kg compared with both OXY20 (4.1 [3.5-4.7] kg) and CNTR (3.8 [3.3-4.3] kg). In multiparous cows, OXY40, OXY20, and CNTR did not differ in colostrum yield (5.9 [5.3-6.5], 5.7 [5.1-6.3], and 5.4 [4.8-6.0] kg, respectively), but colostrum yield was greater in parity 2 compared with all other parities, cows giving birth to male calves, cows with the highest milk production at wk 4 of lactation, and cows with a dry period of >65 d. Oxytocin use did not affect [IgG] in either primiparous or multiparous cows, but [IgG] was highest in cows in parity ≥4 and lowest in cows dry >65 d. In summary, oxytocin use at 40 IU i.m. was associated with a higher colostrum yield in primiparous cows only and no change in [IgG]. Oxytocin use likely addressed disturbed milk ejection and therefore increased colostrum yield in heifers milked for the first time in a rotary parlor. This study confirms cow characteristics associated with colostrum production within a single herd.

FIBRE EFFECTS ON NUTRITION AND REPRODUCTION IN PIGS

Dietary fibre (DF) is an indigestible carbohydrate in the form of a non-starch polysaccharide that is a major problem in the use of inexpensive agro-wastes by pigs such as brewer's dry grains, cassava peel, palm kernel cake, rice bran, sorghum spent grain and wheat offal. The DF in a pig's diet can be classified by its solubility as soluble dietary fibre and insoluble dietary fibre, and chemically − as neutral detergent fibre and acid detergent fibre. High DF levels reduced nutrient utilization, growth rate, in terms of pork production and reproductive performance. Pigs' reproductive cycles at different stages and lactation were both greatly impacted by increased DF intake. High DF decreased the number of stillborn piglets at birth and the farrowing duration by sow, while improving colostrum intake in piglets and colostrum yield in sows. On the other hand, reducing the quantity of DF's hemicellulose in a sow's lactation diet can improve the low-birth-weight piglets' health, post-weaning performance and milk composition. While exogenous enzymes and the extrusion of fibrous feedstuffs enhanced nutrient digestibility and utilisation, other processing methods, including fermentation and extrusion, decreased the DF components and had a beneficial impact on the performance of the pigs. Agro-industrial residues have enormous potential to improve reproductive efficiency and serving as an economically viable DF feeding strategy in the pig industry.

81 Effects of udder quarter location on colostrum yield, nutrients, and immunoglobulin G in beef heifers

Abstract We hypothesized that colostrum total nutrients and immunoglobulin G (IgG) would not be affected by side of the udder, but that they would be greater in the rear versus the front half of the udder due to difference in volume of colostrum produced. Complete colostrum yield was collected individually from each quarter pre-suckling [40.5 ± 21.0 min (SD)] from fall-calving crossbred beef heifers (body weight = 472 ± 34 kg; body condition score (= 5.3 ± 0.4) that were either individually-fed 100% (control; n = 12) or 70% (nutrient restricted; n = 12) of NASEM metabolizable energy and metabolizable protein requirements from d 160 of gestation to calving. Analysis of colostrum lactose, protein, triglycerides, and free glucose was performed using colorimetric assays on a UV-visible light microplate reader. Colostrum IgG was analyzed using a commercially available ELISA kit. Quarter yield, nutrient or IgG concentration, and total nutrients or IgG were analyzed using the mixed procedure of SAS with fixed effects of udder location, nutritional plane, and their interaction in the model. Nutritional plane was not part of the current objective, but was included to account for variation in colostrum yield due to nutrient restriction, as we have previously reported. Separate statistical comparisons were made between the front and rear quarters and between the right and left quarters of the udder, with each quarter considered a sampling unit within each experimental unit (half) for both analyses. The interaction of udder location × nutritional plane did not affect (P ≥ 0.11) any variable. Nutrient restriction decreased (P ≤ 0.03) colostrum yield, total lactose, and total free glucose compared with controls. Front quarters produced less volume (P &amp;lt; 0.001; 36.2% of total); total lactose, protein, and free glucose (P ≤ 0.02; 34.3 to 43.3%); and total IgG (P &amp;lt; 0.001; 33.7%) than rear quarters. Front quarters tended to produce less (P = 0.07; 43.3%) total triglycerides than rear quarters. Lactose concentration was 10.5% greater (P = 0.05) in front compared with rear quarters, but other nutrient or IgG concentrations were not affected (P ≥ 0.18). Udder side did not affect total volume (P = 0.78), total nutrients (P ≥ 0.36), or total IgG (P = 0.79). The left side represented 50.7% of the total volume and 50.1 to 53.4% of total nutrients and IgG produced. Concentration of nutrients and IgG also were not affected (P ≥ 0.31) by udder side. In conclusion, colostrum did not differ between udder sides, but, relative to front quarters, rear quarters produced greater nutrient and IgG yield due to greater colostrum volume with minimal differences in nutrient or IgG concentrations.

Effect of peripartum dexamethasone treatment on farrowing outcomes and newborn piglet traits in multiparous sows

This study assessed the effects of dexamethasone treatment on farrowing performance and piglet traits in the first 5 days of life in multiparous sows, a high-risk group for stillbirths and prolonged farrowing. In this study, 185 multiparous sows (parity 4.25 ± 0.14) were selected on the day of farrowing and divided into three treatments: CON - control, without dexamethasone treatment; DexaPF - treatment with dexamethasone (20 mg im per female) at the time of copious colostrum secretion (pre-farrowing); and DexaFO - treatment with dexamethasone (20 mg im per female) when the first piglet was born (farrowing onset). All sows and their litters were monitored for farrowing duration, obstetric interventions, colostrum yield and intake, newborn piglet traits, and piglet performance until 5 d of age. A subsample of 106 females (∼35 per treatment) had their blood glucose concentration checked hourly shortly after the first piglet was born until the end of farrowing. Additionally, blood samples from 42 litters were collected for immunocrit evaluation. The results showed no differences regarding farrowing duration (CON = 258.02 ± 13.81 min; DexaPF = 251.29 ± 13.60 min; DexaFO = 294.92 ± 13.89 min; P = 0.06) and obstetric intervention rates among treatments (CON = 36.58 ± 6.78 %; DexaPF = 42.16 ± 6.89 %; DexaFO = 48.05 ± 7.08 %; P = 0.45). The blood glucose concentration during farrowing was higher in DexaPF (94.56 ± 1.57 mg/dL; P < 0.001) than in CON (73.50 ± 1.72 mg/dL) and DexaFO (87.94 ± 1.80 mg/dL). No differences were observed regarding total piglets born and born alive, stillborn, newborn piglet vitality, colostrum intake, immunocrit, colostrum yield, and glycemia and rectal temperature at 24 h of age (P ≥ 0.13). Regarding meconium staining, higher percentages of piglets born without meconium staining were observed in DexaFO (54.77 ± 5.21 %; P = 0.02) compared with CON (48.58 ± 5.26 %), and no difference was observed for the DexaPF group (53.23 ± 5.21 %). In addition, a higher unbroken umbilical cord rate was observed in DexaFO (92.41 ± 1.31 %; P < 0.01) than the CON or DexaPF (86.91 ± 1.97 % and 89.31 ± 1.67 %, respectively). However, the treatments did not affect piglet performance (weight gain and survival) until 5 d of age (P ≥ 0.15). In summary, dexamethasone treatment in periparturient multiparous sows did not improve farrowing performance and key production parameters, such as the piglet weight gain and survival up to 5 d of age.

Effects of Feeding Glucogenic and Lipogenic Diets on Performance and Blood Parameters of Transition Dairy Cows and Their Calves

Introduction: Several studies have explored the impact of diet type on energy sources. The current study aimed to evaluate the impact of feeding glucogenic versus lipogenic diets to Holstein dairy cows during the close-up period on cows' performances and their calves' growth parameters. Materials and methods: Twenty-four Holstein dairy cows with an average parity of 3 selected for the study, starting 21 days before expected calving. The cows were divided into three groups based on a randomized complete block design including a Control diet (glucogenic diet, Glu), a low lipogenic diet (Llip) with 25% barley grain replaced by beet pulp, and a high lipogenic diet (Hlip) with 50% barley grain replaced by beet pulp. Daily recording of dry matter intake (DMI) was conducted, with blood samples collected on the day of parturition in cows and days 1, 2, 7, and 21 of calves age. In dairy cows, both the quality and quantity of colostrum were determined. Additionally, performance variables including feed intake, average daily gain, and skeletal parameters such as shoulder height, Hip height, and body length were measured. Blood parameters, such as glucose, triglyceride, and concentrations of certain liver enzymes, including alkaline phosphatase (ALP), serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT), and serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) were recorded in calves. Results: The increase of beet pulp in the prepartum diet led to a significant increase in DMI. Colostrum yield and constituents (protein, lactose, and solids nonfat percentage) decreased with an increase in beet pulp level and the differences between Glu and Hlip were significant. Performance parameters of the calves were similar across all treatments, except skeletal growth. Calves that were fed the Hlip diet showed a lower shoulder height compared to those fed the Glu diet. Blood glucose was significantly higher in cows and their offspring that were fed Llip diets compared to other groups. The concentration of liver enzymes, including ALP, SGPT, and SGOT was not affected by treatments. Conclusion: Substituting barley grain with beet pulp as a lipogenic component may enhance dry matter intake in periparturient dairy cows. However, it did not show a notable impact on offspring performance.

Impact of pre-partum nutraceutical or monensin intraruminal boluses on colostrum quality and Holstein dairy cows’ performance: exploratory field study

A smooth transition phase is the key for optimal dairy cows’ performance and reduced antibiotics use. Therefore, the objective of our Our study was to compare the effect of an antibiotic growth promoter and a nutraceutical bolus, onhealth, colostrum, milk production, and profitability in transition dairy cows. Seventy-five animals blocked by parity, previous milk yield, lactation length, and body condition score (BCS) were assigned in a randomised design to 1 of 3 groups: control (CON; N = 26) receiving no treatment; monensin (MON; N = 27) receiving, a slow-releasing intraruminal bolus of sodic monensin at −20 d relative to expected calving; nutraceutical (ECS; N = 22) receiving, at −5 d before the expected calving an intraruminal bolus of Echinacea purpurea dry extract, vitamin E, l-carnitine and Silybum marianum released within 24h. Colostrum yield and density were recorded; its composition and immunoglobulins content were analysed. Every 20 days BCS was recorded; individual milk yield was recorded daily until 70DIM and monthly thereafter until 305 DIM. Milk quality was tested monthly. An economic evaluation until 70DIM was performed. Colostrum and Δ BCS were analysed by analysis of covariance. Economics and BCS were analysed with ANOVA, and milk yield and quality with ANOVA for repeated measures. The MON and ECS had lower colostrum protein and His, Arg, Ala, Met, Val and Ile content, and in higher milk yield until 35 (ECS) and 70 (MON) DIM compared to the CON. A trend for a higher partial income was observed for MON and ECS compared to the CON group, suggesting a positive impact of the treatments.

Creating models for the prediction of colostrum quantity, quality, and immunoglobulin G yield in multiparous Jersey cows from performance in the previous lactation and environmental changes

With multiparous Jersey cows, colostrum production seems to be variable. Due to this, we aimed to identify specific variables involved in colostrum production and quality. From 2021 to 2023, data from 28 US farms (415 multiparous Jersey cows) were used to investigate if colostrum yield, IgG concentration (g/L), and IgG yield (g) could be predicted by farm variables and transmitting abilities. With the data collected, multiple regression equations were developed to aid in predicting colostrum yield, IgG concentration, and IgG yield. Colostrum was weighed and sampled for IgG analysis. Dairy Herd Information (DHI), calving, diet, and management information data were compiled. Days below 5°C (D<), days above 23°C (D>), and days between 5 and 23°C (D) were recorded. We evaluated transmitting abilities for milk, fat, protein, and dollars; previous lactation milk yield, fat percent, fat yield, protein percent, protein yield, previous lactation somatic cell score, previous lactation days open, previous lactation days dry, previous lactation days in milk, and previous parity; and current lactation parity, days dry, and calving information, birth ordinal day, and latitude. Colostrum yield, IgG yield, and concentration had 1 added to correct for values = 0. After addition, values >0 were transformed to ln or log10. Nontransformed variables were also used to develop the model. Variance inflation factor analysis was conducted, followed by backward elimination. The log10 colostrum yield model (R2 = 0.55; β in parentheses) included herd size (-0.0001), ordinal days (-0.001), ln ordinal days (0.07), latitude (-0.02), dry period length (0.004), D< (-0.005), D (-0.003), time to harvest (0.05), ln time to harvest (-0.35), IgG (-0.004), log10 IgG (0.46), feedings per day (0.06), ln pasture access (-0.13), and ln previous lactation days open (0.14). The model showed that previous lactation days open contributed the most toward increasing and latitude contributed the most toward decreasing colostrum yield. The IgG model (R2 = 0.21) included herd size (0.02), D> (0.38), ln time to harvest (-19.42), colostrum yield (-4.29), ln diet type (18.00), ln previous lactation fat percent (74.43), and previous parity (5.72). The model showed that previous lactation milkfat percent contributed the most toward increasing and time from parturition to colostrum harvest contributed the most toward decreasing colostrum IgG concentration. The log10 IgG yield model (R2 = 0.79) included ln ordinal days (0.03), time to harvest (-0.01), colostrum yield (-0.11), ln colostrum yield (1.20), ln pasture access (-0.09), ln previous lactation fat percent (0.53), and previous parity (0.02). The model showed that colostrum yield contributed the most toward increasing IgG yield, followed by previous lactation milkfat percentage. Pasture access contributed the most toward decreasing IgG yield, although the contribution was very small. These models were validated using 39 samples from 22 farms. Actual minus predicted colostrum yield and IgG concentration and yield were 0.89 kg, -21.10 g/L, and -65.15 g, respectively. These models indicate that dry period management and cow information can predict colostrum yield and IgG concentration and yield.

Effect of Andrographis paniculata supplementation during the transition period on colostrum yield, immunoglobulin G, and postpartum complications in multiparous sows during tropical summer.

This study evaluated the effect of Andrographis paniculata (A. paniculata) supplementation in sow diets before and after farrowing on the sow and piglets' performances during early postpartum period and on sows' backfat and longissimus muscle losses during lactation. Seventy Landrace×Yorkshire sows and their offspring (1,186 piglets) were distributed into three groups: control (n = 31), treatment-250 (n = 18), and treatment-1000 (n = 21). From 110.2±0.7 days of gestation until farrowing (5.8 days) and throughout the lactation period (25.2 days), sows in the control group were given the conventional lactation diet, while sows in the treatment-250 and treatment-1000 groups received supplements of 250 ppm and 1,000 ppm of A. paniculata, respectively. In sows with parity 3-5, piglets from the treatment-1000 group had higher colostrum intake than the control and treatment-250 groups (p<0.05), but not in sows with parity 6-9. Colostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG) increased in treated sows versus controls for parity 6-9 (p<0.05), but was consistent for parity 3-5. Piglet performance until day 3 postnatal was similar across groups (p>0.05). Treatment-250 sows had higher feed intake post-farrowing than treatment-1000 sows (p<0.05). Longissimus loss was less in both treatment groups than control (p<0.05), but backfat loss was similar across groups (p>0.05). Post-partum complications were consistent across groups (p>0.05). Farrowing duration and piglet birth intervals in sows with parity 6-9 were prolonged in the treatment-1000 group. Supplementing with 1,000 ppm A. paniculata for 5.8 days pre-farrowing and 25.2 days post-farrowing enhanced sow colostrum IgG and piglet colostrum intake, while also reducing longissimus loss in sows. However, for sows of parity 6-9, this supplementation led to prolonged farrowing, increased intervals between piglet births, increased stillbirth, and reduced piglet birth weight. These effects should be considered when using A. paniculata supplementation.

The impact of the interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing on the duration of farrowing, stillbirth rates, and colostrum production in highly productive sows in a tropical climate.

The present study investigated impact of the interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing on the duration of farrowing, stillbirth rates, and colostrum production in highly productive sows in a tropical climate. The study involved a total of 92 Danish Landrace x Yorkshire sows (herd A) and 114 French Landrace × Yorkshire sows (herd B). In herd B, a total of 61 sows had their blood samples collected within 1 hr after the onset of farrowing to evaluate their blood glucose levels. The interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing averaged 5.9 ± 4.5 and 5.4 ± 4.1 hr in herds A and B, respectively. Neither the duration of farrowing nor the occurrence of stillborn piglets in both herds was affected by the time gap between the last meal and the onset of farrowing. At the onset of farrowing, the average blood glucose level in sows was 77.1 ± 19.3 mg/dL, with a range of 27 to 115 mg/dL. There was a positive correlation observed between the blood glucose concentration and the colostrum yield of the sows (r=0.261, P=0.042). In conclusion, the time interval between the last meal and the onset of farrowing did not have any impact on the farrowing performance of sows. However, a higher concentration of blood glucose at the onset of farrowing was associated with an improvement in the colostrum yield of the sows.

Influence of prepartum feed levels on colostrum production and farrowing performance in highly prolific sows in a tropical environment

Currently, there is a lack of data on the effects of altering feed levels on sow performance and piglet characteristics during the transition period in tropical environments. The present study determined the effect of sow feed levels during the transition period on colostrum yield, colostrum immunoglobulin (Ig) G, colostrum intake of piglets, farrowing duration, proportion of stillborn piglets per litter (SB) and the incidence of farrowing assistance in highly prolific sows. A total of 114 Landrace × Yorkshire crossbred sows and their offspring (n = 2 072) were included in the experiment. Sows were assigned to different feed supply levels from entry to farrowing at 110 days of gestation until farrowing based on their parity number. Three feed-level groups were the control group who received 3.0 kg/day of lactation feed (n = 40), treatment 1 group who received 3.6 kg/day of gestation feed (n = 39) and treatment 2 group who received 4.0 kg/day of lactation feed (n = 35). Colostrum samples (5 ml) were obtained from the sows within 3 h after the onset of farrowing for IgG assay. Piglets were weighed immediately after birth and then again 17–24 h later to estimate their colostrum intake. Colostrum yield was determined by aggregating the colostrum intake of piglets within the litter. The total number of piglets born, SB and farrowing duration were 18.2 ± 3.8, 7.5% and 259.1 ± 138.1 min, respectively. Among these sows, 28.9% experienced a farrowing duration exceeding 300 min and 50.9% required assistance during farrowing. Interestingly, piglets in the treatment 2 group demonstrated a greater colostrum intake (403.1 ± 14.9 g) compared to the control group (360.6 ± 15.1 g, P = 0.046) and the treatment 1 group (361.0 ± 12.9 g, P = 0.033). On average, colostrum yield of sows in the treatment 2 group tended to be higher than in the control group (+0.5 kg, P = 0.081), but did not differ from the treatment 1 group (+0.3 kg, P = 0.191). No significant differences in farrowing duration, SB, farrowing assistance, or colostrum IgG concentration were found across various feed-level groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, the study showed that raising lactation feed by 1.0 kg/day prefarrowing increased piglet colostrum intake and tended to boost sow colostrum production, without significantly affecting farrowing duration, stillbirth rates, or need for assistance.

Fish Oil Supplementation as an Omega-3 Fatty Acid Source during Gestation: Effects on the Performance of Awassi Ewes and Their Offspring.

The primary aim of this research was to assess the impact of supplementing fish oil into the diet of pregnant Awassi ewes on various aspects of the dam's productive performance, offspring birth weight, colostrum yield and quality, milk production and composition, postpartum offspring performance, and the composition of fatty acids in milk. In this study, two different fat sources, namely palm oil (PO) and fish oil (FO), were utilized, with both being included at a rate of 2.4% of dietary dry matter (DM) during the initial 65 days of gestation (early gestation stage), and then at 2.1% DM from day 65 of gestation until lambing (late gestation stage). The study subjects were Awassi ewes with a body weight (BW) averaging 57 ± 1.5 kg and an age of 3.5 ± 1.2 years. These ewes were randomly assigned to one of four dietary treatments: (i) a diet containing only palm oil from day 0 to day 150 of pregnancy (PO, n = 15); (ii) a diet containing palm oil from day 0 to day 65 of pregnancy, followed by a diet containing fish oil from day 66 to day 150 of pregnancy (POFO, n = 16); (iii) a diet containing fish oil from day 0 to day 65 of pregnancy, followed by a diet containing palm oil from day 66 to day 150 of pregnancy (FOPO, n = 16); (iv) a diet containing only fish oil from day 0 to day 150 of pregnancy (FO, n = 16). Within each treatment, ewes were housed in three replicates, with each replicate further divided into three subgroups. The first two subgroups each contained eight ewes, while the third subgroup contained nine ewes. In addition, each treatment contained 10 primiparous and 15 multiparous ewes. The results indicated that the POFO treatment led to significant increases (p < 0.05) in birth weight, gestation length, and colostrum IgG concentration. However, it also resulted in a decrease (p < 0.001) in colostrum production and a reduction (p < 0.001) in the percentage of milk fat and milk protein. Furthermore, the milk from the POFO treatment exhibited higher levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) (p < 0.001) compared to the PO and FOPO treatments, while the milk saturated fatty acids (SFA) were lower (p < 0.001). In conclusion, the addition of fish oil at a rate of 2.1% DM during the late pregnancy period showed promise for enhancing birth weight, colostrum IgG concentration, and the PUFA content in the milk.

Impacts of supplementing Cannabis sativa byproducts during the transition period on behaviour, feed consumption, constipation levels, colostrum production and piglet performance in hyperprolific sows

In the modern swine industry, inflammation and pain in sows after farrowing represent a crucial animal welfare concern. Cannabis sativa, a medicinal plant, has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antipyretic properties and is rich in fibre. The objective of this study is to examine the impacts of supplementing sows with Cannabis sativa byproducts during transition periods (7 days before and after farrowing) on various aspects including postpartum behaviour, feed intake, constipation, farrowing duration, colostrum yield and piglet performance. The experiment involved a total of 100 Landrace × Yorkshire sows. The sows were distributed according to parity numbers into two groups, i.e., control (n = 54) and treatment (n = 46). The control group was provided with a lactation diet at 3.0–3.5 kg per day for a period of 7 days before and after farrowing. The treatment groups received the same quantity of the diet but with an additional supplementation of 150 g/d of Cannabis sativa byproduct. The byproduct was analysed and contained 0.24 % (w/w) cannabidiol (CBD), resulting in a daily intake of 360 mg of CBD per sow. The conventional lactational diet had a dietary fibre content of 4.3 %, whereas the diet supplemented with Cannabis sativa byproduct had a higher dietary fibre content of 16.9 %. Video cameras were used to observe and document the behaviour of sows within the initial 24 h after farrowing. The duration in which sows engaged in activities such as sleeping, sitting, standing, feeding and nursing their piglets was quantified. Additionally, the rectal temperature of the sows was measured, and a temperature equal to or exceeding 39.5 °C was considered indicative of fever. The faecal score of the sows was assessed, and a faecal score of ≤2 was classified as constipation. On the third day postpartum, the proportion of sows with fever in the treatment group was lower than that in the control group (20.0 % and 38.9 % respectively, P = 0.051). Sows receiving supplementation with Cannabis sativa byproducts exhibited increased durations of standing and feeding compared to those in the control group (P < 0.05). Notably, overall, sows without constipation issues spent more time consuming feed than those experiencing constipation (P = 0.006). The prevalence of constipation was significantly lower in the treatment group compared to the control group (17.4 % and 81.5 %, respectively, P < 0.001). Furthermore, the postpartum sows demonstrated increased feed intake following supplementation with Cannabis sativa byproducts (P < 0.05). Sow colostrum yield, piglet colostrum intake, piglet mortality and other piglet traits did not differ between the control and treatment groups (P > 0.05). In conclusion, supplementing Cannabis sativa byproducts during the transition periods in peri-parturient sows under tropical conditions resulted in a reduction in constipation issues and improved sow activities, such as increased time spent standing and consuming feed within the first 24 h postpartum.

PSX-20 Effects of a Phytogenic Supplement Pre- and Post-Calving on Colostrum Yield and Composition, and Cow-Calf Performance

Abstract Objectives were to determine the effects of a phytogenic supplement (a blend of turmeric, capsicum, and pepper extracts), fed pre- and post-calving, on colostrum yield and quality, and cow-calf performance. Twenty-three (BW = 532.08 ± 9.13 kg; age 36 mo) crossbred Angus cows were randomly assigned to 3 treatment groups: 1) Not supplemented (CON, n = 7); 2) supplemented with 250 mg· animal-1· d-1 (PHYT250, n = 8); or 3) supplemented with 500 mg· animal-1· d-1 (n = 8) of the phytogenic supplement. Cows were individually fed the supplement from 30 days (± 5 days) pre-calving (d –30) to 60 days (d 60) post-calving. Total colostrum from the left-rear quarter was collected on d 0 (pre-suckling), and d 1, d 2, and d 3 post-calving. Colostrum weight and volume were recorded, and samples (50 mL) were collected and analyzed for percentages of fat, protein, milk urea nitrogen (MUN), other solids, and lactose. Cow BW was obtained on a biweekly basis from d -30 to d 60. Calf BW was measured on d 0, d 30, d 42, and d 60. Data were analyzed as repeated measures using the MIXED procedure of SAS with treatment, day, and their interaction as fixed effects and animal as a random effect. No treatment by day interaction (P = 0.42) nor main effects of treatment and day (P ≥ 0.25) were observed for colostrum volume. Fat concentration tended to be greater (P = 0.07) for PHYT250 and PHYT500 compared with CON. A treatment × day interaction (P = 0.05) was observed for MUN, with PHYT250 being greater than PHYT500 but similar to CON on d1. There was no difference between treatments for all other days for MUN. No treatment by day interactions (P ≥ 0.15) or main effects of treatment (P ≥ 0.16) were observed for other components. However, there were main effects of day (P ≤ 0.02) with protein being greater on d 0 compared with all other days, and other solids and lactose being greater on day 3 compared with all other days. Main effects of day were observed for cow and calf BW (P ≤ 0.01). Cows were heavier on d 28 and d 42, while calves were heavier on d 56 compared with all other days. Even though we did not observe differences in performance, our results suggest that feeding a phytogenic supplement 30 d pre-calving up to 60 d post-calving may impact fat and MUN in colostrum. To complement these data, we are currently evaluating concentrations of immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and IgM) in colostrum and calf blood. Further, milk collections will be performed in specific time-points up to weaning, to evaluate any possible effects of our treatments in milk yield and composition.

PSVII-27 Effect of Pre-And Postpartum Supplementation of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D 3 on Lactational Performance of Holstein Cows

Abstract Vitamin D supports several physiological functions, from mineral homeostasis to immune activity. The aim of this study was to provide 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 [25(OH)D3] to late gestation and early lactation dairy cows and evaluate the impact on lactational performance. Holstein cows (n = 100) that finished their first or greater lactation were enrolled in a randomized block design with a 2x2 factorial arrangement of treatments (n = 25 cows per treatment group). Prepartum treatments were 0 or 3 mg of 25(OH)D3 per cow daily from 28 d before expected calving until calving. Postpartum treatments were 0 or 1.5 mg of 25(OH)D3 per cow daily from calving until 63 d after calving. Treatments were top-dressed at feed delivery using a cornmeal carrier. The 25(OH)D3 source was Hy· D100. Prepartum [30 IU/kg body weight (BW)] and lactation (40 IU/kg BW) rations also provided a basal amount of cholecalciferol fed to NASEM 2021 recommendations. Dry cows were fed individually, and group housed in a bedded pack. Lactating cows were fed individually, group housed in a freestall, milked 3x/d, and milk sampled 6x/wk. Data were analyzed by ANOVA with repeated measures using the MIXED procedure of SAS (v. 9.4). The model contained fixed effects [prepartum treatment (PRE), postpartum treatment (POST; removed for prepartum data) week, and their interactions] and a random effect (block). Prepartum dry matter intake (DMI) averaged 16.3 kg/d and 2.04% of BW, was not affected by prepartum treatment (P ≥ 0.89) and was decreased closer to calving (P ≤ 0.01). As expected, week after calving affected (P ≤ 0.05) lactational performance. Postpartum DMI was greater for cows fed 3-1.5 mg than those fed 0 to 1.5 mg (Table 1). Colostrum yield and quality were not affected by prepartum treatment (P ≥ 0.91) and averaged 5.7 kg with an IgG content of 75.6 g/L. Actual milk yield was not affected by prepartum or postpartum treatments. Interestingly, there was a carryover effect of prepartum treatment on yield of 4% fat-corrected milk (FCM) and energy-corrected milk (ECM). Cows fed 3 mg during late gestation produced more than those fed 0 mg. Postpartum treatment did not affect component-corrected milk yield. Providing additional vitamin D in the form of 25(OH)D3 to late gestation cows improved lactational performance by increasing intake and the yield of component-corrected milk.