Haemato-biochemical changes associated with peri-parturient period in dairy cows

Abstract

Peri-parturient period in cows is often considered to be between 3 weeks pre-partum to 3 weeks postpartum. It is the most stressful phase of transition for dairy cows from pregnant non-lactating state to lactation. A total of 42 peri-parturient Gir cows were included in the present study to determine the haemato-biochemical alterations during peri-parturient period. Ten apparently healthy Gir cows were also selected (which were outside the peri-parturient period) to have base line data on haematobiochemical parameters for the comparison and analysis. There was significant (p<0.05) decrease in haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and lymphocytes during peri-parturient period in dairy cows whereas, neutrophils were found significantly (p<0.05) increased. There was also significant (p<0.01) decrease in total leucocytes counts (TLC) during peri-parturient period Non-significant differences were observed in platelet count, monocytes count, eosinophils count and basophils count in dairy cows during peri-parturient period and control animals. The biochemical parameters revealed highly significant decrease (p<0.01) in serum glucose, calcium (Ca), phosphorus (P) and magnesium (Mg) during peri-parturient period as compared to control group. Total proteins (TP) and albumin were also found significantly (p<0.05) decreased. There was significant increase (p<0.05) in blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentration during peri-parturient period as compared to control group.