Effect of different forages on blood components of Holstein cows

Abstract

The effects of three forages on plasma components of Holstein cows were evaluated. Corn silage, alfalfa (Medicago sativa) and Tifton-85 (Cynodon spp.) hays were used as forage sources. Animal’s weights were obtained at the beginning and end of each experimental period (21d), to evaluate intake and body weight variation during total experimental period. Blood samples (15 mL) were obtained on 21d of each period, before morning diet administration, to determine triglycerides, glucose and urea plasma concentration. The experimental design was 3x3 Latin Square with three lines and three columns corresponding to three cows and three roughages. Hematocrit concentration indicated that cows showed light anemia. There was effect of forage source only to triglyceridies concentration.