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Selected Blood Chemistry and Hematologic Characteristics in Milk-Fed and Conventionally Fed Calves

Division of Veterinary Medical Research, Food and Drug Administration, Beltsville, MD2075

ABSTRACT

Effects of diet and age on selected blood chemistry and hematologic characteristics were studied in 20 Holstein bull calves. Milk-fed calves (treatment 1) were maintained exclusively on a milk-replacer diet. Conventionally fed calves (treatment 2) were provided a calf-starter diet and alfalfa hay beginning at 2 wk of age and were weaned from milk replacer at 7 wk of age. Blood samples were collected by jugular puncture from all animals just before the morning feeding at 6, 7, 9, and 11 wk of age.

Milk-fed calves had greater glucose concentration in blood serum. Urea nitrogen of blood increased in conventionally fed calves from 6 through 11 wk and decreased in milk-fed calves. Hemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume decreased in calves receiving milk-replacer diet. Total protein and albumin concentrations were greater in the conventionally fed group. Treatment differences also existed for calcium and cholesterol concentrations and in alkaline phosphatase activity.