Effect of Oral Calcium Propionate on Blood Calcium and Energy Metabolite Concentrations in Dairy Cows with Dystocia Fed a Prepartum Anionic Diet

Authors

  • Mauricio E. Benzaquen Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Unive.rsity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
  • Carlos A. Risco Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Unive.rsity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
  • Amanda Erickson Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Unive.rsity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610
  • Pedro Melendez Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Unive.rsity of Florida, Gainesville, Florida 32610

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20084433

Keywords:

dystocia, total blood calcium, betahydroxybutyrate, on-esterified free fatty acid, oral calcium, propionate drench

Abstract

Results from research on the calcium and energy status of cows affected with dystocia have not been conclusive. We hypothesize that during early post-partum (pp), similar to cows with retained placenta and uterine prolapse, cows with dystocia develop subclinical hypocalcemia, as well as ketosis. Therefore, the objectives of this study were : (1) to describe the total blood calcium (tCa), betahydroxybutyrate (BOHB) and non-esterified free fatty acid (NEFA) concentrations in blood during the first 12 days pp in dairy cows with dystocia, 2) to determine if an oral calcium propionate drench at calving and 72 hours later improves blood calcium concentration and energy status.

Cover image of the 41st Conference Proceedings: A herd of cattle standing in the field, framed by a cloudy sky. Yellow background.

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Published

2008-09-25

Issue

2008

Section

Research Summaries