Late Pregnant Cows Research Articles

Use of domestic biological drugs in reproduction of cattle

purpose of the work was to analyze the use of domestic biodrugs in the reproduction of cattle. In the scientifi c and economic experiment, three groups of dry cows (control, 1st and 2nd experimental) were formed according to the principle of analog groups, taking into account the clinical and physiological condition, age and live weight. In the 2nd series of the experiment, 3 groups of newborn heifers were formed in accordance with the groups of dams. The work scientifi cally substantiates and experimentally proves the eff ectiveness of using complex immunomodulatory biodrugs consisting of two main active components (yeast cells and vitamins) Salus-PE and Bovistim-K, in the technology of cow reproduction and calf rearing. It has been established that the use of biodrugs in late pregnant cows improved the course of the calving and postpartum periods, increased milk productivity and colostrum quality, forms stable colostral immunity in newborn calves, reduced the risks of respiratory and gastrointestinal diseases in young animals, contributing to better live weight gains. The tested complex immunomodulatory biodrugs activate hematopoiesis, compensatory mechanisms of the body, the population of immune cells in the blood, increased protein metabolism, the expression profi le of cellular and humoral factors of non-specifi c resistance. The use of the developed biodrugs during decornuation stimulated tissue regeneration, accelerated the process of scab formation, normalized the level of γ-globulins, activated the synthesis of α- and β-globulins, oxidation-reduction processes and metabolism, which ensured an increase in the immune status of the body of calves in the neonatal period. The economic effi ciency of using the biodrugs Salus-PE and Bovistim-K in the technology of cow reproduction in the 1st and 2nd experimental groups based on 1 ruble of additional costs was 2.63 and 4.50 rubles, and in the technology of raising calves 6.85 and 11.20 rubles, respectively.

Biochemical, Molecular, Postmortem and Histopathological Characterization of Bovine Theilerioses at Different Stages of Production and Reproduction

Theilerosis is the most important common vector (Tick) born and hemoprotozoan diseases (TBDS) which pose a serious threat to the livestock population in terms of mortality, reduced milk yield and lowered draft power. The disease is having impact on biochemistry and systemic functions affecting at different stages of production and reproduction of dairy cattle as well as there is lack of accurate diagnosis of this disease. A total 1900 cases were suspected for theileriosis on the basis of clinical signs and total 950 cases were found positive for theileriosis on the basis of blood smear examination. As per the stages of pregnancy and lactation, the cases were classified as cows in early pregnancy, cows in late pregnancy, cows in post parturient stage, cows in early and late lactation period. Biochemical alterations like increased AST, ALT and BUN level indicating liver and kidney dysfunctions in all the groups and significantly higher in post parturient group. The serum phosphorus, calcium and magnesium level decreased in all the affected groups and mostly in late pregnancy period and post parturient stage indicating metabolic disturbances during the disease which were aggravated during theileriosis. Through molecular diagnosis 114 cows (65.51%) were found positive for T. annulata and 41 cows (22.9%) were found positive for T. orientalis and 19 cows (10.9%) were found positive for both Theileria annulata and Theileria orientalis. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the accession number for Theileria annulata was OQ230445 which is having 100% similarity with puri isolate and 98% similarity with Khorda isolate and the accession number for T. orientalis was OQ 230446 having 85% similarity with Khorda isolate. On necropsy, the animals were weak, debilitated with atrophy of the muscles. In some cases, the liver was enlarged, markedly congested and in some cases yellowish tinged surface and cut edges with distension of gall bladder was evident. Abomasal ulcers were distinct and considered as pathognomonic. On histopathological examination, the liver revealed necrosis of hepatocytes with sinusoidal congestion and infiltration of mononuclear cells. In lymphnode, there was depletion of lymphocytes in lymphoid follicles with congestion and haemorrhage. Pulmonary edema was also evident in few cases. The combined approach involving biochemical, molecular, Post-mortem and histopathological characters were found to be fruitful in diagnosis of the bovine theileriosis at different stages of production and reproduction with optimum specificity.

Protein supplementation during mid-gestation affects maternal voluntary feed intake, performance, digestibility,and uterine blood flow of beef cows.

This study aimed to assess the impact of protein supplementation and its interaction with calf sex (CS) on the performance, metabolismand physiology of pregnant beef cows. Fifty-two multiparous Zebu beef cows carrying female (n = 22) and male (n = 30) fetuses were used. Cows were individually housed from day 100 to 200 of gestation and randomly assigned to restricted (RES, n = 26) or supplemented (SUP, n = 26) groups. The RES cows were ad libitum fed a basal diet (corn silage + sugarcane bagasse + mineral mixture), achieving 5.5% crude protein (CP), while SUP cows received the same basal diet plus a protein supplement (40% CP, at 3.5 g/kg of body weight). All cows were fed the same diet during late gestation. Differences were declared at p < 0.05. No significant interaction between maternal nutrition and calf sex was found for maternal outcomes (p ≥ 0.34). The SUP treatment increased the total dry matter (DM) intake (p ≤ 0.01) by 32% and 19% at mid- and late-gestationrespectively. The total tract digestibility of all diet components was improved by SUP treatment at day 200 of gestation (p ≤ 0.02), as well as the ruminal microbial CP production (p ≤ 0.01). The SUP treatment increased (p ≤ 0.03) the cows'body score condition, ribeye area, the average daily gain (ADG) of pregnant components (PREG; i.e., weight accretion of cows caused by pregnancy)and the ADG of maternal tissues (i.e., weight accretion discounting the gain related to gestation) in the mid-gestation. The SUP cows exhibited a lower maternal ADG (p < 0.01) compared to RES cows in late pregnancy. There was a 24% additional gain (p < 0.01) in the PREG components for SUP cows during late gestation, which in turn improved the calf birthweight (p = 0.05). The uterine arterial resistance and pulsatility indexes (p ≤ 0.01) at mid-gestation were greater for RES cows. In conclusion, protein supplementation during mid-gestation is an effective practice for improving maternal performance, growth of the gravid uterusand the offspring's birth weight.

Effects of feeding difructose anhydride on the mineral status and milking performance of transition cows

The objective of this study was to assess the potential effect of difructose anhydride III (DFAIII) on calcemia, magnesemia, and milking performance of dairy cows. Sixty-six multiparous Holstein cows in late pregnancy (gestation days = 253.8 ± 2.13 d) were blocked according to their expected calving date and randomly assigned to either receiving no supplementation (Control) or receiving 40 g/d of DFAIII (DFA) between -14 and +7 d relative to calving following a complete randomized block design. Cows on Control received 640 g/d of a pellet containing no DFAIII, whereas DFA cows received the same pellet but containing 6.25%DFAIII. Pellets of each treatment were top-dressed on a daily basis while cows were dry, and were fed via an automatic feeding system twice daily (320 g each feeding) during milking. Dry cows were fed once a day, whereas lactating cows were fed twice daily. Dry matter intake was individually monitored on a daily basis. Cows were milked twice daily and milk production and milk protein and fat contents recorded at every milking. Cows were kept on the study until they reached 21 d postpartum. Cows were weighed at dry-off (about 45 d before study enrolment) and twice daily after calving at the exit of the milking parlor. Three days before the expected calving date and 6, 12, 24, 48 h and 7 and 14 d after calving cows were blood sampled for subsequent determination of serum Ca and Mg concentrations. There were no differences in DMI before calving, but DFA cows consumed more feed than Control cows about 15 DIM. All cows lost BW after calving but DFA cows lost slightly less BW during the first 5 DIM than Control cows. Cows on DFAIII produced more milk around 10 DIM compared with Control cows, and DFAIII cows produced more milk protein than Control cows after 3 d post-calving. Serum Ca concentrations were not affected by DFAIII supplementation; however, serum Mg concentrations at 6, 12, and 24 h after calving were greater in DFA than in Control cows. In conclusion, DFAIII did not affect postpartum calcemia but improved magnesemia between 6 and 24 h post-calving. Milk production in DFA cows was improved around 10 d post-calving and milk protein yield after 3 d postpartum compared with Control cows. The mechanism leading to increased Mg availability is not clear and warrants further research.

Effect of dietary phosphorus deprivation during the dry period on the liver transcriptome of high-yielding periparturient dairy cows

While dietary phosphorus (P) deprivation extending from the dry period into early lactation impairs health and productivity of cows, restricting dietary P supply during the dry period not only appears to be innocuous but rather effectively mitigates hypocalcemia during the first wk of lactation. To investigate possible negative metabolic effects of P deprivation during the dry period, the present study tested the hypothesis that restarted dietary P supply during the dry period alters the liver transcriptome of dairy cows during the periparturient period. Thirty late-pregnant multiparous Holstein-Friesian dairy cows entering their 2nd, 3rd or 4th lactation were assigned to either a dry cow ration with low (LP, 0.16% P in DM) or adequate P content (AP, 0.35% in DM) during the last 4 wk of the dry period (n = 15/group). Liver transcriptomics, which was carried out in a subset of 5 2nd parity cows of each group (n = 5), and determination of selected hormones and metabolites in blood of all cows, was performed approximately one wk before calving and on d 3 postpartum. Liver tissue specimens and blood samples were obtained by a micro-invasive biopsy technique from the right 10th intercostal space and puncture of a jugular vein, respectively. 175 hepatic transcripts were expressed differentially between LP vs. AP cows in late pregnancy, and 165 transcripts differed between LP vs. AP cows in early lactation (Fold change >1.3 and < -1.3, P < 0.05). In late pregnancy, the enriched biological processes of the upregulated and the downregulated transcripts were mainly related to immune processes and signal transduction (P < 0.05), respectively. In early lactation, the enriched biological processes of the upregulated and the downregulated transcripts were involved in mineral transport and biotransformation (P < 0.05), respectively. The plasma concentrations of the hormones and acute phase proteins (progesterone, insulin-like growth factor 1, serum amyloid α, haptoglobin, and 17β-estradiol) determined were not affected by P supply. These results suggest that P deprivation during the dry period moderately affects the liver transcriptome of cows in late pregnancy and early lactation, and causes no effects on important plasma hormones and acute phase proteins indicating no obvious impairment of health or metabolism of the cows.

Serum Biochemical Profile During Early, Mid, Late Pregnancy, and Calving Periods in Dairy Cows in Algeria

Abstract This study aimed to assess the impact of pregnancy on biochemical indices of dairy cows raised in a semi-arid region of western Algeria. A private farm provided forty dairy cows for this study. The cows were divided into four groups based on their pregnancy stages: G1 included pregnant cows at 3 months, G2 included pregnant cows at 6 months, G3 included pregnant cows at 9 months, and G4 included lactating (calving) cows for 1‒2 months. All of the cows were raised under the same environmental and management conditions, following the regional customs. Twelve biochemical parameters were measured, including cholesterol (CHO), triglycerides (TG), total protein (TP), albumin (Alb), globulin (Glob), urea (Urea), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and magnesium (Mg). The results of the study showed no significant difference (P &gt; 0.05), in the concentrations of various biochemical constituents, among the four groups of dairy cows. The mean value of Glob slightly increased in early pregnancy, compared to late pregnancy, and non-pregnant cows. AST exhibited a significant difference, between non-pregnant, and early-pregnant cows. ALT levels significant decreased in late pregnant cows, compared with early-pregnant cows. Additionally, Ca levels showed a slight increase, during late pregnancy, compared to non-pregnant cows. As this is the first study of its kind on dairy cows in Algeria, the data generated during this research demonstrated the good management of the herd and can serve as valuable reference values for the scientific community.

Effect of Parity, Body Condition Score at Calving, and Milk Yield on the Metabolic Profile of Gyr Cows in the Transition Period.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of parity, body condition score (BCS) at calving, and milk yield on the metabolic profile of Gyr (Zebu) cows. Healthy cows in late pregnancy were grouped according to parity (primiparous, biparous, and multiparous); to BCS scale at calving (high-HBCS and normal-NBCS); and to milk yield (high-HP and moderate-MP production). BCS was assessed, and blood samples were collected on -21, -7, 0, 7, 21, and 42 days relative to parturition. The concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), cholesterol, glucose, total protein (TP), albumin, total calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), and magnesium (Mg); and activities of aspartate aminotransferase and gamma-glutamyltransferase were measured. Data were analyzed by two-way repeated measures ANOVA. The frequencies of high lipomobilization, subclinical ketosis, subclinical hypocalcemia (SCH), and the occurrence of diseases during early lactation were established. Regardless of grouping, NEFA, BHB, and cholesterol increased during early lactation; glucose showed higher values at calving; TP and albumin were higher at 21 and 42 DIM; and Ca, P, and Mg were lower at calving. Parity had little effect on the metabolic profile, HBCS did not differ from NBCS cows, and HP did not differ from MP cows in most metabolites. High lipomobilization in early lactation and SCH at calving were the most common imbalances but were not related to postpartum diseases. High-yielding Gyr cows have a balanced metabolic profile during the transition period, with few biologically relevant effects of parity, BCS at parturition, or milk yielded.

Effect of Dietary Phosphate Deprivation on Red Blood Cell Parameters of Periparturient Dairy Cows.

Postparturient hemoglobinuria is a sporadic disease characterized by intravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuria in early lactating dairy cows. The condition has empirically been associated with phosphorus (P) deficiency or hypophosphatemia; however, the exact etiology remains obscure. This paper summarizes two controlled studies investigating the effect of P deprivation during the transition period. In Study I, 36 late pregnant dairy cows were randomly assigned to either a diet with low, or adequate, P content from four weeks before calving to four weeks after calving. In Study II, 30 late pregnant dairy cows were again assigned to either a diet with low, or adequate, P for the last four weeks before calving only. Pronounced hypophosphatemia developed during periods of restricted P supply. In early lactation, a subtle decline of the red blood cell count occurred independently of the dietary P supply. In Study I, anemia developed in 11 cows on deficient P supply, which was associated with hemoglobinuria in five cases. Neither erythrocyte total P content nor osmotic resistance of erythrocytes were altered by dietary P deprivation. Restricted dietary P supply, particularly in early lactation, may lead to postparturient hemoglobinuria, but more frequently causes clinically inapparent hemolysis and anemia in cows.

Malnutrition of pregnant beef cows and the impact on passive immunity transfer to calves

Nutritional management in rangeland beef cattle systems prioritises optimal body condition scores at calving for improved fertility and reproductive success. However, this focus often overlooks short-term dietary deficiencies before calving, which can lead to adverse outcomes for neonatal calves. This review explores the effects of beef cow malnutrition during the periparturient period on colostrum production, lactation onset, and passive immunity transfer to calves. Additionally, it discusses the long-term impact of such malnutrition on the offspring. By understanding how nutritional interventions affect the transition from gestation to lactation, it becomes possible to enhance calf health and survival in arid tropical environments. Commonly occurring short-term dietary restrictions, particularly protein deficiencies, can disrupt the hormonal equilibrium, resulting in reduced colostrum volume and quality, hindering calf growth and increasing mortality risks. Furthermore, dietary restrictions during this period affect critical physiological processes such as mammary gland blood flow and fetal small-intestine development. The review explores how these constraints influence colostrum production and immunoglobulin absorption by neonatal calves. Additionally, it highlights the significance of addressing other common nutrient deficiencies such as phosphorus and water and investigates the potential benefits of supplementing microbial products to enhance rumen function and protect cows from inflammation. Ultimately, addressing malnutrition during pregnancy is essential to prevent negative impacts on offspring performance, including alterations in carcass composition and muscle marbling. Consequently, cattle producers who aim for superior muscle marbling in the carcass by using costly genetics should give priority to enhancing nutritional programs for late-pregnant cows. In conclusion, a comprehensive understanding of the effects of malnutrition during the periparturient period on colostrum production, passive immunity transfer, and overall calf health is crucial for developing effective nutritional interventions that improve colostrum production, passive immunity transfer, and overall calf health in rangeland beef cattle systems.

Study on the Discrimination of Possible Error Sources That Might Affect the Quality of Volatile Organic Compounds Signature in Dairy Cattle Using an Electronic Nose.

Simple SummaryIn recent decades, remarkable progress in the development of electronic nose (EN) technologies, particularly for disease detection, has been accomplished through the disclosure of novel methods and associated devices, mainly for the detection of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Herein, we assessed the ability of a novel EN technology (MENT-EGAS prototype) to respond to direct sampling and to evaluate the influence of possible error sources that might affect the quality of VOC signatures. Principal Component Analyses (PCA) evidenced the presence in the analyzed samples of sufficient information to consent the discrimination of different environmental backgrounds, feed headspaces and exhalated breath between two groups of cows fed with two different types of feed. Moreover, discrimination was also observed within the same group between exhalated breaths sampled before and after feed intake. Based on these findings, we provided evidence that the MENT-EGAS prototype can identify error sources with accuracy. Livestock precision farming technologies are powerful tools for monitoring animal health and welfare parameters in a continuous and automated way.Electronic nose devices (EN) have been developed for detecting volatile organic compounds (VOCs). This study aimed to assess the ability of the MENT-EGAS prototype-based EN to respond to direct sampling and to evaluate the influence of possible error sources that might affect the quality of VOC signatures. This study was performed on a dairy farm using 11 (n = 11) multiparous Holstein-Friesian cows. The cows were divided into two groups housed in two different barns: group I included six lactating cows fed with a lactating diet (LD), and group II included 5 non-lactating late pregnant cows fed with a far-off diet (FD). Each group was offered 250 g of their respective diet; 10 min later, exhalated breath was collected for VOC determination. After this sampling, 4 cows from each group were offered 250 g of pellet concentrates. Ten minutes later, the exhalated breath was collected once more. VOCs were also measured directly from the feed’s headspace, as well as from the environmental backgrounds of each. Principal component analyses (PCA) were performed and revealed clear discrimination between the two different environmental backgrounds, the two different feed headspaces, the exhalated breath of groups I and II cows, and the exhalated breath within the same group of cows before and after the feed intake. Based on these findings, we concluded that the MENT-EGAS prototype can recognize several error sources with accuracy, providing a novel EN technology that could be used in the future in precision livestock farming.

A potential new biomarker to monitor the phosphorus balance in dry dairy cows

The present study aimed at comparing different candidate blood biomarkers in their suitability to determine activation of regulatory mechanisms responding to phosphorus (P) deprivation in dry dairy cows on deficient dietary P supply. Fifteen multiparous dairy cows in late pregnancy were assigned to either a diet with low (1.6 g/kg DM) or adequate P content (3.5 g/kg DM) during the last 4 weeks of gestation. Blood samples were obtained immediately prior to initiating the experimental feeding period (T-bl), after 2 weeks of experimental feeding (T-1) and 4 days before calving, which was equivalent to at least 3 weeks of experimental feeding (T-2). Studied parameters were the plasma concentrations of phosphate (Pi), calcium (Ca), CrossLaps (CTX), a biomarker for bone mobilization, 1,25-(OH)2-Vitamin D (1,25-(OH)2D) and the activity of alkaline phosphatase (AlP). Treatment and time effects were studied with repeated measures ANOVA, and the different parameters were correlated to the dietary P intake in the days before sampling. Treatment effects were only identified for the individual increase in the plasma concentration of CTX related to baseline values (ΔCTX) and to a lesser extent for the Ca:Pi ratio in plasma. ΔCTX was the only parameter correlated to P intake at T-1 and with the strongest association with P intake at T-2. The results of this study provide first indications for the suitability of ΔCTX to determine the level of dietary P supply at which counter regulatory mechanism to negative P balance are triggered during the dry period. This parameter that is easily applicable in a field setting can assist the validation of current recommendations for the dietary P supply in dry cows.

Immediate prepartum supplementation accelerates progesterone decline, boosting passive immunity transfer in tropically adapted beef cattle

Context Poor nutrition of late-pregnant cows is highly prevalent in the dry tropics and associated with high levels of calf mortality. Aims It was hypothesised that supplementation with protein to prepartum cows would restore the normal decline in progesterone prepartum and increase the transfer of passive immunity to calves, with this being further enhanced by inclusion of yeast fermentation products. Methods In total, 84 heifers and 45 cows were selected for a completely randomised block design, with the following three dietary treatments: unsupplemented, receiving ad libitum low-protein hay only; hay supplemented with 1 kg/day of protein; and supplementation with both protein and 14 g/day of a Saccharomyces cerevisiae fermentation product. Supplementation occurred for an average of 14 days before calving. Cow plasma samples in the week before parturition, and the first plasma sample after parturition, were analysed for progesterone and metabolites. Newborn calves were weighed and blood-sampled three times per week during the first 2 weeks after birth. The first two calf plasma samples were analysed for total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations. Data were analysed using a mixed-effects model and the decline of progesterone concentration over time was modelled using a non-linear segmented model. Key results Prepartum supplementation reduced cow liveweight loss, increased glucose, reduced fat mobilisation metabolites and tended to increase average daily weight gain of calves. Including yeast fermentation products in the supplement tended to increase the transfer of passive immunity to calves. Supplementation decreased plasma progesterone before parturition and including yeast fermentation products further advanced the initiation of progesterone decline. Conclusion Protein supplementation of protein-deficient beef cows during late pregnancy helps restore the normal decrease in progesterone before parturition. Implications This study identified a plausible hormonal mechanism explaining how poor nutrition around birth can increase calf loss, opening new possibilities for short-term diet management strategies to reduce calf mortality and improve calf health.

Effects of restricted dietary phosphorus supply to dry cows on periparturient calcium status

Restricted dietary P supply to transition dairy cows has recently been reported to beneficially affect the Ca balance of periparturient cows. The objective of the present study was to determine whether this effect on the Ca balance can be reproduced when limiting the P-restricted feeding to the last 4 wk of gestation. A total of 30 dairy cows in late pregnancy were randomly assigned to a dry cow diet with either low or adequate P content (0.16 and 0.30% P in DM, respectively) to be fed in the 4 wk before expected calving. After calving, all cows received the same lactating cow ration with adequate P content (0.46% P in DM). Blood was collected daily from 4 d antepartum until calving, at calving (d 0), 6 and 12 h after calving (d +0.25 and d +0.5, respectively) and on days +1, +2, +3, +4 and +7 relative to calving. Blood gas analyses were conducted to determine the concentration of ionized Ca in whole blood ([Ca2+]), and plasma was assayed for concentrations of inorganic phosphorus ([Pi]), total calcium, parathyroid hormone ([PTH]), 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D ([1,25-(OH)2D3]), and CrossLaps ([CTX]), a biomarker for bone resorption (Immunodiagnostic Systems GmbH). Repeated-measures ANOVA was conducted to study treatment, time, and lactation number effects. The mean [Ca2+] in P-deprived cows remained above the threshold of 1.10 mmol/L throughout the study, and values were higher compared with cows on adequate P supply between d 0 and d +2 and on d +4. The [Ca2+] differed between treatments at the sampling times d 0, d +0.25, d +0.5, d +2, and d +4. Plasma [PTH] and [1,25-(OH)2D3] did not differ between treatments, but P-deprived cows had greater [CTX] than cows with adequate P supply at d +1, d +2, and d +7. These results indicate that restricted dietary P supply to during the last 4 wk of the dry period improves the Ca homeostasis of these cows in the first days of lactation, an effect that seems to be primarily driven by increased bone tissue mobilization.

Relative Late Gestational Muscle and Adipose Thickness Reflect the Amount of Mobilization of These Tissues in Periparturient Dairy Cattle.

Simple SummaryOne of the main characteristics of the periparturient period is the mobilization of adipose and muscle reserves to support the metabolic demands of fetal growth and lactation. A comparison of cattle with low vs. high longissimus dorsi thickness in late gestation demonstrated that high-muscle cows gained additional backfat, whereas cattle with less muscle thickness gained additional muscle, from approximately one month prior to calving through calving. High-muscle cows subsequently mobilized more muscle and fat than low-muscle cows and yielded less milk through 60 days in milk. Thereby, the relative amount of muscle mass in late gestation may be related to metabolic strategies that support the fetus and milk production during the periparturient period.Due to insufficient dry matter intake and heightened nutrient requirements in early lactation, periparturient dairy cows mobilize adipose and muscle tissues to bridge energy and amino acid gaps, respectively. Our objective was to evaluate the relationship between the relative muscle thickness of late pregnant cows and their early lactation performance. At 35 d before expected calving (BEC), longissimus dorsi muscle thickness (LDT) was measured in forty-one multiparous Holstein cows via ultrasound. Tissue mobilization was evaluated via ultrasound images of LDT and backfat thickness (BFT) at 21 and 7 d BEC as well as at 0, 10, 30, and 60 DIM. Plasma concentrations of 3-methylhistidine (3-MH), creatinine (CRE), non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA), and β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) were evaluated weekly. Milk yield and milk component data were collected through 60 DIM. Cattle were assigned post hoc to high-muscle (HM; n = 20; LDT > 4.49 cm) or low-muscle (LM; n = 21; ≤4.37 cm) groups, with mean LDT at 35 d BEC greater in HM (5.05 ± 0.49) than in LM (3.52 ± 0.65) animals. Between 35 and 21 d BEC, LM cows gained LDT, whereas HM cows gained BFT. HM cows mobilized more muscle from 21 d BEC to 30 DIM, as reflected by a greater loss of LDT, greater 3-MH concentrations (532 vs. 438 ± 30 ng/mL), and a greater 3-MH:CRE ratio (0.164 vs. 0.131 ± 0.008) in the first three weeks postpartum. The LDT and BFT at 21 d BEC were related to the amount of respective tissue mobilized through 30 DIM (R2 = 0.37 and 0.88, respectively). Although calves born to HM cattle were larger (45.2 vs. 41.8 ± 0.7 kg), HM cows produced less milk (38.8 vs. 41.6 ± 0.8 kg/d) with a tendency towards higher fat content (4.33 vs. 4.05 ± 0.12%), likely related to the mobilization of more backfat from 0 to 60 DIM (1.78 vs. 0.68 ± 0.34 mm), compared to LM cattle. These findings suggest that a cow’s metabolic status, as measured by LDT and BFT prepartum, may influence the metabolic strategy the animal uses to meet energy and amino acid requirements in late gestation and early lactation.

Grape Pomace Ingestion by Dry Cows Does Not Affect the Colostrum Nutrient and Fatty Acid Composition.

Simple SummaryThe introduction of alternative feedstuff such as grape pomace into the diets of dry cows could decrease the cereal needs in ruminant feeding systems and could modify the composition of colostrum. Grape pomace is a by-product of the wine industry. It contains polyphenols and fatty acids, which have the potential to improve the animal product quality. The nutritional quality of colostrum and the quality of colostral fat is affected by dry cow nutrition in the late stages of pregnancy. This study determined the potential of grape pomace feeding to increase colostral protein, which, according to the literature, is connected with the concentration of immunoglobulin G, better passive immunisation, and the health of calves. The addition of grape pomace was determined to have no effect on colostral nutrient and fatty acid concentrations. Thus, grape pomace can be used as a nutrient source for dry cows.The utilisation of different by-products from the food industry as nutrient sources for farm animals is both possible and beneficial. Grape pomace is a by-product that contains polyphenols and fatty acids, both of which have the potential to improve the nutritional quality of cow colostrum. This study aimed to explore how the addition of grape pomace to the diet of dry cows affects the concentration of nutrients and fatty acids of colostrum. Sixteen Slovak spotted cows in late pregnancy were used in this study. From the seventh day before expected calving to the day of calving, cows in the grape pomace group received a diet supplemented with dried grape pomace, at 0.116 kg/cow/day. Colostrum samples were analysed for basal nutrients and fatty acid concentrations. Between the control and experimental groups, the nutrient and fatty acid concentrations of all the colostrum samples did not show significant differences. The nutrient levels in the colostrum from both groups of cows were typical, as related to the time from calving. The addition of the grape pomace into the diet of dry cows had no effect on nutrient concentrations and the fatty acid composition of the colostrum. The somatic cell score of the colostrum sampled at the 12th hour after calving (4.2 versus 2.6) was positively affected by grape pomace addition. The results of this study revealed that grape pomace (fed in an amount of 0.116 kg/cow/day) had no positive or negative effect on the base nutrients and fatty acids of cow colostrum, and, therefore, grape pomace can be used as a nutrient source for dry cows in small amounts.

Studying Resistance of Some Dairy Cattle Breeds to Heat Stress in Relation to Milk Yield

The objective for our work was to estimate the milk yield and blood biochemical constituents of and weight daily gain of calves recently born from imported cows under hot summer conditions in Egypt. Thirty late- pregnant cows, aged 22-24 months, chosen randomly were used in this study. Experiment was carried out during the period from third stage of pregnancy and continued to 8 weeks postpartum. Imported late-pregnant cows divided into three groups, each group was 10 cows. 1st group was Brown Swiss (BS) cows, 2nd group was Simmental (S) cows and 3rd group was Holstein (H). Results showed that H cows have a lowest rectal temperature (RT) and respiration rate (RR) in compare with BS and S cows. Results showed that H cows have a highest daily milk yield while S cows have lowest values. BS and H cows have significantly higher total protein, albumin and urea concentrations than S cows. While, globulin and glucose concentrations were significantly higher in BS than its concentrations in S and H cows, respectively. Total cholesterol, phospholipids and creatinine concentrations showed the lowest values in BS cows as compare with S and H cows. Otherwise, BS cows have the highest triglycerides concentration as compare with H and S cows. About liver function showed the highest activity for AST in S cows and for ALT in H cows as compared of other groups. BS cows have significantly higher T4 and Estradiol17β levels than its levels in S and H cows, respectively. Birth weight of newborn both male and female calves as well as daily body weight gain of calves produced from the three imported cows were not differs Significantly. Two months weight of calves produced from S cows was significantly higher than BS and H cows, respectively. In conclusion, the three imported breed cows appears good resistance to heat stress effects under hot summer conditions in Egypt with extremely resistance for H cows.

Determination of Blood Glucose, Total Protein, Certain Minerals, and Triiodothyronine during Late Pregnancy and Postpartum Periods in Crossbred Dairy Cows.

The late pregnancy (3rd trimester) and the postpartum period (PPP) (calving date or day zero to day 45) are very critical periods for the fertility and production in dairy cows. This study was designed to investigate blood glucose, total protein (TP), calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P), magnesium (Mg), iron (Fe), and triiodothyronine (T3) during late pregnancy and the PPP. Twenty-seven apparently healthy multiparous crossbred dairy cows (Friesian × Kenana) were included in this study. The cows were randomly allocated into three groups: group A (n = 10), cows with late pregnancy, group B (n = 7), cows in the PPP, and group C (n = 10), nonpregnant cows as control. One-way ANOVA was used to analyze the data. The results of this study showed that blood glucose was higher in late pregnancy and the PPP than in nonpregnant cows. The TP was significantly lower in late pregnant cows than during the PPP and in nonpregnant cows. Ca, P, and Mg were not significantly different between periods. Serum Fe and T3 were significantly lower during the PPP than that in late pregnant and nonpregnant cows. The results can provide indications of the nutritional status of dairy cows and a diagnostic tool to avoid the metabolic disorders that may occur during late pregnancy and the PPP.

Effects of a nitrogen-based supplement on intake, live weight and body energy reserves in breeding &lt;i&gt;Bos indicus&lt;/i&gt; cross cows

Breeding cows grazing seasonally dry rangelands usually lose substantial live weight (LW) during the dry season, when in late pregnancy. An experiment investigated the effects of feeding a N-based supplement to cows in late pregnancy on voluntary intake, total live weight (T-LW), body condition score (CS) and estimated body net energy content (Body-NE), as well as carry-over effects during lactation. In Phase A for 139 days from mid-pregnancy, mature Bos indicus cross breeders [initially 438 kg T-LW and 5.7 CS units (9-point scale)] were fed in pens on low quality tropical grass hay alone (Control) or with a N supplement (Supplemented). Most (17/22) of the cows calved during this interval. Voluntary hay intake averaged 6.74 g DM/kg T-LW/d in Control cows, and was increased by 35% (P&lt;0.001) when supplement was fed. As a result, feeding supplement reduced loss in conceptus-free live weight (CF-LW) by 30% (from 1.11 kg/d to 0.78 kg/d; P&lt;0.001) and in Body-NE by 20% (from 26.6 to 21.2 MJ NE/d; P = 0.007). Control cows mobilized 24% of maternal LW and 32% of body energy when fed low quality hay during late pregnancy, and these losses were substantially reduced when a N-based supplement was fed. During Phase B, when the lactating cows with their calves grazed a high quality rainy season grass-Stylosanthes pasture, the previously supplemented cows produced more milk (P = 0.065) and their calves grew faster (P = 0.077) in early lactation than Control cows. In addition, during early lactation Control cows exhibited compensatory LW gain relative to the Supplemented cows (0.80 vs. 0.43 kg/d, respectively; P&lt;0.001) and there was no discernable weight difference between the groups by 205 days of lactation. In conclusion the losses in LW and body energy reserves by late pregnant cows fed low quality tropical grass hay were substantially reduced by a N supplement, but the differences were not maintained when the cows subsequently grazed high quality pasture.

Effects of prepartum zinc-methionine supplementation on feed digestibility, rumen fermentation patterns, immunity status, and passive transfer of immunity in dairy cows

The aim of this study was to determine the effects of prepartum supplementation of zinc-methionine (Zn-Met) on feed digestibility, rumen fermentation patterns, and immunity status in dams and passive immunity transfer in their calves. A randomized complete design was used in this study. Forty multiparous Holstein dairy cows in late pregnancy (60 d before the expected calving date) were blocked by parity (2.1 ± 0.3), body weight (651 ± 52 kg), and expected calving date, and randomly assigned to 1 of 4 treatments. Cows were supplemented with Zn as Zn-Met at 0, 20, 40, or 60 mg/kg of dry matter (DM) from 60 d before expected calving date to the calving day. Though the nutrient digestibility was not affected by Zn supplementation, DM intake, Zn digestibility, and Zn deposition increased linearly with increasing Zn-Met supplementation. Ruminal pH and molar proportion of individual volatile fatty acids were similar, whereas a linear decrease and increase were observed in ruminal ammonia and microbial crude protein concentration, respectively, with increasing Zn-Met supplementation. Maternal serum concentration of alkaline phosphatase, carboxypeptidase, Cu and Zn superoxide dismutase, and total antioxidant capacity were greater in cows supplemented with >40 mg of Zn/kg of DM compared with the control group. With increasing Zn-Met supplementation, maternal blood concentration of IL-1 decreased linearly, whereas IL-2 and IL-6 increased linearly, and no differences were observed in IL-4. Concentration of nonesterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyric acids in maternal blood was similar between treatments. No difference was observed in colostrum composition with increasing Zn-Met supplementation. Concentration of Zn and immunoglobulins (including IgA, IgG, and IgM) in maternal blood did not differ among treatments. However, Zn concentration in colostrum and blood of calves increased linearly. The concentration of IgA and IgM in colostrum increased linearly with increasing Zn-Met supplementation, whereas no differences in immunoglobulins were observed in calf blood. In conclusion, Zn supplementation as Zn-Met at 40 of mg/kg of DM may improve antioxidant activity of dam and potentially increase passive immunity transfer in calves.

Study of on-farm pre and post-natal feeding practices of Red Chittagong Cattle

The study was conducted with the objective to investigate prenatal and postnatal performances of Red Chittagong Cattle (RCC) cows in subsistence feeding and nutrition compared to those in improved feeding system. Twenty RCC cows with average initial live weight of 204.6 (±29) kg at their 2nd or 3rd parity and at about seven months of pregnancy were divided into two equal groups and assigned to two dietary treatments: one group was fed as per farmers’ choice, while another was fed 25% higher metabolizable energy (ME) and crude protein (CP) than requirements through concentrates, according to ARC (2009). Cows in farmers’ diet during last 50 days of pregnancy fed lower ME and CP (42.4 MJ and 445 g, respectively) than their daily requirements (43.5 MJ and 519 g, respectively), resulted in lower birth weight of calves compared to improved feeding (13.36 and 15.12 kg, respectively) where daily ME and CP intake was 57.77 MJ and 603 g. In first 60 days of lactation, cows under farmers’ diet fed required amount of ME and CP (44.83 MJ and 471g, respectively) compared to requirement (42 MJ and 388g, respectively). However, cows in improved diet fed 1.28 and 1.42 times higher ME and CP (52.92 MJ and 563 g) than requirements, and produced higher milk (1.97 and 2.50 L/d; P&lt;0.05) and daily gain (122 and 274 g/d; P&lt;0.01), compared to that of farmers’ diet cows. Therefore, it was concluded that diet of RCC cows in late pregnancy may be supplemented with CP in order to produce higher birth weight of calves. In case of lactating cows, a cost effective supplementation of concentrate mixture for increasing milk production and daily gain may be investigated by doing further research.&#x0D; Bangladesh J. of Livestock Res. 21-25: 159-167, 2018