Metabolic and Lactation Effects of Rumen-Protected Choline Supplementation in Peripartum Dairy Cows and Its Effects on Calf Growth Until Weaning

TL;DR

This study found that giving choline to dairy cows around the time of calving improved their metabolism and milk quality without affecting calf growth.

Contribution

The novel finding is that rumen-protected choline improves cow metabolism and milk composition without impacting calf growth.

Findings

RUPCHOL reduced serum aspartate aminotransferase, non-esterified fatty acids, and β-hydroxybutyrate, indicating better metabolic health.

Milk from RUPCHOL-fed cows had higher total solids, fat, and protein percentages.

Calf growth and colostrum IgG content were not affected by maternal RUPCHOL supplementation.

Abstract

Background: This study evaluated the effects of rumen-protected choline (RUPCHOL) supplementation in dairy cows from 21 days before calving to 28 days postpartum. The objective was to determine how RUPCHOL influences metabolic status, milk composition, and subsequent calf growth until weaning. Methods: Twenty-seven pregnant Holstein cows were assigned to a Control group (n = 13) or an RUPCHOL group (n = 14), both receiving a total mixed ration (TMR), with the RUPCHOL group supplemented with 15 g/day of choline chloride. Cows were monitored during prepartum, calving, and postpartum periods for body weight, body condition score, dry matter intake, rectal temperature, milk yield and composition, and blood metabolites. Results: RUPCHOL supplementation tended to reduce serum aspartate aminotransferase and lowered concentrations of non-esterified fatty acids and β-hydroxybutyrate, indicating improved metabolic status. Milk total solids, fat, and protein percentages were higher in RUPCHOL-fed cows, suggesting enhanced milk quality. Maternal supplementation did not affect colostrum immunoglobulin G (IgG) content or calf body weight and body measurements (heart girth, wither height, hip height, and body length) from birth to weaning. Conclusions: In summary, RUPCHOL supplementation improved indicators of metabolic health and milk composition of dairy cows during the peripartum period without altering calf growth outcomes.

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