Metabolic profile of hypogalactic cows

Abstract

A study of the metabolic profile of hypogalactic dairy cows under field conditions was undertaken. Thirty cases of hypogalactic cows were selected and utilised for the study. Similarly, six healthy dairy cows maintained under identical environmental and managemental conditions constituted the control group. Samples of blood, urine and milk were collected and analysed for various parameters according to standard methods. Data collected from the hypogalactic dairy cows indicated a high incidence in animals of third parity which were around four to five years of age. The clinical data were within normal limits. Haemoglobin was decreased indicating a mild anaemia. Biochemically, serum glucose, total protein, albumin, globulin and calcium showed a significant decrease. Blood ketone body levels and serum aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels showed significant increase. Serum magnesium and phosphorus levels did not vary significantly. The metabolic profile of hypogalactic animals revealed that hypoglycaemia, hypocalcaemia, hypoproteinemia and subclinical ketosis may be the possible causes of hypogalactia.