Supplementing transition cows with calcium propionate-propylene glycol drenching or organic trace minerals: implications on reproductive and lactation performances

Abstract

The aim of this study was to estimate the effect of the supplementation of a calcium propionate-propylene glycol drenching and a commercial organic trace mineral formulation (4-Plex) on reproductive and lactation performances in cows during the post-partum period. In trial 1, lactating dairy cows (n = 37) were randomly assigned either to a calcium propionate-propylene glycol drenching (DR) or to a control (CODR). Both groups were treated at 12 h post-partum and at 30 DIM. In trial 2, (n = 33) cows were treated with either a trace mineral (TM) formula or a placebo (COTM) daily from 12 h post-partum until 60 DIM. Blood samples were collected to evaluate calcium, phosphorus and non-esterified fatty acids serum levels. Milk samples were obtained for fat, protein, somatic cell, and ketone bodies composition. Liver biopsies were taken for zinc and copper content. Estruses were detected using a HeatWatch system and ovulations were estimated by detecting progesterone concentrations in milk samples. Supplementation with DR resulted in higher (P < 0.05) concentrations of calcium compared to the control group. There were no differences in NEFA, ketone bodies, milk yield, protein, fat and somatic cell count between treatment groups. Supplementation of TM resulted in less (P < 0.0001) services per conception compared to COTM. Thus, DR supplementation during post-partum was effective in increasing calcium in serum shortly after treatment; however, was not sufficient to induce other metabolic, reproductive or productive responses. Daily trace mineral supplementation resulted in lower services required per conception; however, this supplementation showed no effect on other reproductive or productive variables.