Organic Acid Supplementation in Holstein Cows: Blood Biochemistry, Colostrum Quality, Cryptosporidium Detection, and Milk Composition

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of dietary supplementation with an organic acid blend during the transition period on the biochemical profile, colostrum quality, neonatal calf health, milk composition, and mammary health of Holstein dairy cows.
In the first protocol, 20 cows were assigned to a control group (n = 8) or a supplemented group (n = 12) receiving 40 g/day beginning 60 days before calving. A second protocol included 36 cows (18 per group) and assessed milk composition at 3 and 6 weeks postpartum and mammary health by the California Mastitis Test (CMT). Prepartum biochemical parameters, maternal serum and colostrum Brix values, and microscopic Cryptosporidium detection in neonatal calves were also evaluated.
Supplementation did not significantly affect the biochemical parameters evaluated before calving (P > 0.05). Maternal serum Brix values were comparable between groups, whereas colostrum Brix values were significantly lower in supplemented cows. Cryptosporidium detection at three days of age was uncommon in both groups, with no apparent reduction in calves born to supplemented cows. At the first milk sampling, supplemented cows had higher milk fat content (P = 0.001) and lower milk protein content (P = 0.036). Density, solids-not-fat, salts, and lactose did not differ significantly between groups. The proportion of CMT-positive cows was lower in the supplemented group (P = 0.007).