Effect of 25-Hydroxyvitamin D3 on Vitamin D and Immunoglobulin G Status, Performance, and Health of Periparturient Cows and Their Calves.

Abstract

The objectives of this study were to explore the effects of 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ on (1) colostrum yield and compositions, 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃, minerals, and health of periparturient cows and (2) 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ and minerals status, growth performance, and health of their calves. Forty multiparous dry cows were assigned to either vitamin D₃ group or 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ group. After calving, all their calves received colostrum from their own dams; calves were respectively assigned to one of four treatments: (1) calves from D-VD group were fed vitamin D₃; (2) calves from D-VD group were fed 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃; (3) calves from D-25D group were fed vitamin D₃; (4) calves from D-25D group were fed 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃. Feeding 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ significantly increased (p < 0.05) 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃, calcium and phosphorus in serum and colostrum, serum antioxidant capacity and immunoglobulin G (IgG) of periparturient cows, and significantly increased (p < 0.05) serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃, calcium, and phosphorus in calves at birth. Feeding 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ calves improved (p < 0.05) weaning weight, skeletal growth, and average daily gain together with increased antioxidant capacity and IgG. In conclusion, supplementing 25-hydroxyvitamin D₃ to periparturient cows and their calves improved colostrum and health of cows and growth and health of their calves.