Serum Metabolic Profile Based Assessment of Energy Balance in Tropical and Temperate Crossbred Dairy Cattle at Post-Partum Transition Stage

Abstract

Objective of the present study was to evaluate the nutritional status of post-partum transition dairy cows in dry-zone and mid-country, through assessment of serum metabolic profile. Tropical and temperate crossbred dairy cows at post-partum transition stage (i.e. 3 weeks post-partum) managed at a medium-scale farm in dry-zone [n=15) and mid-country(n=15) were used for the study. Milk production, body weight and body condition score of cows were recorded. The forage concentrate mixed rations of the farms were analyzed for nutrient and energy contents. Cows were bled and serum was analyzed for non-esterified fatty acids [NEFA), beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), urea, albumin, calcium and phosphorous contents. While serum NEFA, urea and calcium contents were significantly [P<0.05J greater, serum BHBA content was significantly [P<0.05) lower in temperate crossbred cows compared to tropical crossbred cows at post-partum transition stage. The serum BHBA content of tropical crossbred cows and NEFA and urea content of temperate crossbred cows at post-partum transition stage were exceeded the upper critical limit of the reference range suggested to determine the state of energy balance. In conclusion, both tropical and temperate dairy cows at post-partum transition stage suffer from negative energy balance under the current feeding system in studied farms in dry-zone and mid-country. The BHBA level is suggested as an appropriate indicator to assess the state of energy balance in dairy cows, managed under free-stall system. Adaptation of appropriate energy dense feeding programs focusing particularly overcoming energy imbalance are warrant to optimize the productivity in dairy cattle of mid-country and dry-zone.