Abstract

The study investigates alterations in nutrient utilisation and serum liver enzyme levels in crossbred dairy cattle during the different phases of the early lactation (zero to five days, 25-30 days and 45-60 days post-calving). Seven healthy early lactating cows of third parity were selected from the University Livestock Farm and Fodder Research and Development Station, Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University, Mannuthy, for the research work. Animals were given standard ration with ad libitum water. Meteorological variables such as ambient temperature and relative humidity were recorded and the temperature humidity index (THI) was calculated. The overall mean concentrations of BHB, glucose, total protein, AST and P showed no significant differences in all the three phases of early lactation. The mean concentration of TAG showed a significant difference (P>0.05) between zero to five days with 25-30 days and also with 45-60 days. The levels of GGT showed a significant difference (P>0.05) between 25-30 days and 45- 60 days. The mean concentrations of Ca showed a significant difference (P>0.05) between zero to five days and 25-30 days also with 45-60 days. Hence it could be inferred that in a season when the THI was below 82 and standard feeding protocols were followed, the animals would be in positive energy balance even during peak lactation.

Keywords : Early lactation, Temperature Humidity Index, Nutrients, Liver enzymes