Investigation of the Effect of Liver Supportive Feed Additives on Metabolic Profile Tests and Colostrum Dry Matter of Dairy Cows in Dry Period

Authors : Gencay Ekinci, Veli Özbek
Pages : 71-79
Doi:10.36483/vanvetj.1630406
View : 95 | Download : 99
Publication Date : 2025-07-27
Article Type : Research Paper
Abstract :This study aimed to investigate the effects of a liver-supportive feed additive (LSFA) on metabolic profile parameters and colostrum dry matter (DM) content in dairy cows during the dry period. A total of 34 clinically healthy cows (18 Holstein and 16 Simmental), aged between 3 and 5 years, were randomly assigned to two groups at the onset of the dry period: the study group (SG; n=17) and the control group (CG; n=17). While the CG received only the standard dry period ration, the SG was additionally supplemented with 100 g/cow/day of LSFA for 15 consecutive days. Blood samples were collected on day 0 and day 35 of the dry period to assess macro-mineral levels and selected metabolic profile parameters. Colostrum samples were obtained within two hours postpartum, and DM content was measured using an optical Brix refractometer. On day 35, the mean blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level in the SG was significantly lower compared to day 0 (p=0.007), whereas the mean aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activity was significantly higher (p<0.001). Additionally, the average colostrum DM content in the SG (Brix=26.67±1.14%) was significantly greater than that in the CG (Brix=25.80±0.83%) (p=0.029). These results indicate that LSFA supplementation may influence liver-related nitrogen metabolism, as evidenced by decreased BUN levels and increased AST activity-an enzyme commonly associated with hepatic cellular damage. Although these findings suggest a potential impact of LSFA on liver function, definitive conclusions cannot be drawn without more comprehensive evaluations involving an extended biochemical panel. Future studies incorporating liver function enzymes, protein fractions, and antioxidant parameters are warranted to better elucidate the physiological effects of such feed additives.
Keywords : Kolostrum, Metabolik profil testleri, Mineraller, Peripartum dönem, Sığır

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