Biochemical profile in buffaloes with periparturient reproductive and metabolic disorders

Abstract

The relevant blood biochemical profile in cases ofretention offetal membranes-RFM (53), pre-partum (7)
and post-partum (32) prolapse of genitalia, milk fever (25) and clinical ketosis (14) were studied and compared with
those of normal (IO each) buffaloes of similar physiological status with a view to characterize the same and suggest
some suitable control measures. The mean blood glucose level was significantly lower in buffaloes with RFM
(53.42 ± 0.73 Vs 57.73 ± 1.42 mg%). Similarly, ketotic buffaloes also had significantly lower blood glucose (40.93 ±
0.85 Vs 58.25 ± 1.33 mg%) and higher ketone bodies (15.43 ± 0.33 Vs 3.29 ± 0.20 mg%). The serum calcium level was
significantly lower in cases ofRFM (5.52 ± 0.12 mg%), pre and post-partum genital prolapse (6.27 ± 0.13 and 6.03 ±
0.13 mg%) and milk fever ( 4.30 ± 0.08 mg%,) as compared to normal ones (8.07 ± 0.2 l mg°/o). The inorganic phosphorus
level was also significantly lower in pre-partum (3 .80±0.08 Vs 5.22 ± 0.15 mg°/o)and post-partum (3.29± 0.08 Vs 5.57
± 0.12 mg%) genital prolapse and milk fever (3 .28 ± 1.0 Vs 5.57 ± 0. 12 mg%). Although magnesium levels in milk
fever and total proteins and AKP levels in RFM cases did not differ from those in normal buffaloes. The serum GOT
and LOH activities on the contrary were significantly higher in RFM and milk fever cases as compared to normal
ones. The findings suggest that the altered metabolic profile could be the cause of most periparturient disorders in
buffaloes and these could probably be prevented by proper care, balanced feeding and mineral supplements
during advanced pregnancy and early post-partum period.