Clinico-biochemical studies on fattening cattle with stiff gait as main symptom in Japan.

Abstract

The chemical compositions of blood and bone were estimated in eight affected cattle as part of clinico-biochemical studies on a disease of beef cattle for fattening with stiff gait of the four limbs, strange posture, and elongation and deformation of the hoofs as main symptoms. Eight of the affected cattle were divided into two groups from the results of some examinations. Radiographical changes, such as the deformation, atrophy and lack of the apex of the third phalanx, were remarkable in five affected cattle (Nos. 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6; group A), but not so remarkable in three (Nos. 7, 8 and 9: group B). The blood composition was within a normal range in group A. On the other hand, total serum protein, urea nitrogen, calcium and inorganic phosphorus were a little lower and magnesium and potassium higher in blood level in group B than in control cattle. The pH of rumen juice was within a range of 6.0 to 6.5 in all the effected cattle. The differences of components of phalanges were remarkable between the two groups. Namely, in group A, the magnesium and sodium levels of phalanges were higher than in control cattle. Ash and calcium contents increased distinctly at the tip of the third phalanges were higher than in control cattle. On the other hand, in group B, ash, calcium, sodium and potassium contents were lower than in control cattle. The fat content was much higher in the affected groups than in the control group. There wer slight changes in the inorganic component levels of the ungual layer. These changes were proportional to those of the phalanges.