Characterization of trace element concentrations in blood samples of dairy cows with uterine torsion and their neonatal calves

Abstract

Mineral deficiencies can lead to dystocia and abnormalities in neonates. In dairy cows, the stillbirth of neonatal calves due to dystocia has become an economic problem. Uterine torsion is a common form of dystocia observed in dairy cows. However, to the best of our knowledge, there are no reports on the characteristics of serum trace element concentrations in dairy cows with uterine torsion. Therefore, this study aimed to comprehensively measure and compare the serum trace element concentrations in dairy cows with uterine torsion and their neonates. The study found that calves delivered by cows with uterine torsion had significantly higher fetal mortality rates compared to those delivered from cows without uterine torsion. The odds ratio for fetal mortality in dairy cows with uterine torsion was 7.85. Maternal serum Zinc (Zn) concentrations in cows with uterine torsion were significantly lower than those in cows without uterine torsion (p < 0.01). In addition, the Cu: Zn ratios of cows with uterine torsion were significantly higher than that of cows without torsion (p < 0.05). In contrast, serum cobalt (Co) concentrations in neonates from cows with uterine torsion were significantly higher than those in neonates from cows without torsion (p < 0.01). In conclusion, uterine torsion is associated with a higher fetal mortality rate and greater economic loss than other types of dystocia. Further investigation is required to better understand the relationship between uterine torsion and trace mineral levels.