Effects of lameness, stage of lactation and body condition score on some blood parameters in Holstein cows

Abstract

Effects of lameness, stage of lactation and body condition score on serum AST and ALI activities as well as serum total protein, triglyceride, cholesterol and albumin concentrations in cows was investigated in the present study. Fifty six pure Holstein cows were included in this study. AST, ALT and cholesterol levels were significantly altered by stages of lactation (p<0.05). Total protein, triglyceride, AST, ALT, cholesterol and album in levels were low at early stages of lactation and dry periods; in the course of time, their concentrations increased. However, in late stages of lactation, serum total protein, triglyceride, AST, ALT, cholesterol and album in levels declined. No significant alterations were detected in the blood parameters of lame cows. However, AST, ALT and album in levels were low in cows with a lameness score of 4. Likewise, blood parameters were not affected by body condition. Triglyceride, AST, cholesterol and album in levels are high in cows with higher body conditions (≥2.75). © 2009 Academic Journals Inc.