Vol. 12, Issue 3 (2023)

Author(s):
Kamalnath Reddy M, Lavanya M and Darshitha Singh L

Abstract:
The present study was conducted on Body Condition Score (BCS) and levels of various metabolic indicators in lactating Punganur cattle in two different seasons i.e., Autumn and Summer. The experiment was carried out with 24 Punganur cattle at Livestock Research Station, Palamaner. Serum samples were collected during summer (May and June) and autumn seasons (September and October) from six animals to estimate concentrations of Leptin, Ghrelin, NEFA, BHB and MUN in milk to study protein and energy metabolism in relation to BCS. In all animals mean BCS and mean body weights were significantly correlated (p<0.01). The body condition scoring was validated precisely by measuring body fat reserves using ultrasonography and BCS was highly correlated (p<0.01) with ultrasonographic fat reserves. The concentrations of Leptin & Ghrelin did not differ significantly (p>0.05) between the two seasons, where the BCS and serum leptin concentration of animals showed significant positive correlation (r = 0.744). MUN levels during autumn and summer seasons were 7.32±1.0 and 4.98±0.68 (mg/dl) respectively. BHB and MUN values were significantly (p<0.05) higher during summer whereas NEFA levels did not differ significantly. NEFA and BHB values were found to be significantly correlated (r = 0.938) during both the seasons. Monitoring concentrations of metabolic indicators are essential for early identification of metabolic disturbances.