Blood metabolic profile parameters of cows fed diet with glucogenic additive

Abstract

The objective of the study was to determine the effect of the dose and application period of a glucogenic additive (GA) to high-yielding dairy cows at the periparturient period and early lactation on the metabolic disorder incidence and some blood biochemical parameters. The study was carried out on 60 dairy cows which were at their dry-off period at the trial onset. They were divided into 5 groups - a control one (K) and four experimental ones, 12 animals each. In respect to the control group, the cows of the experimental groups received diets with GA (calcium propionate and propylene glycol mixture in loose form) at two levels (300 or 450 g/head/d) and during two different periods (4 or 7 weeks). Blood samples were collected 5 times to determine some blood biochemical parameters. The glucogenic supplement elevated the concentration of glucose and decreased beta-hydroxybutyric acid and free fatty acid accumulation in blood plasma. It also reduced aspartate aminotransferase and slightly elevated alkaline phosphatase activity. The best results were achieved when GA was used at the dose of 450 g/head/d for 7 weeks (1 week prior to calving and 6 weeks following it).