Effect of Anionic Salts on Health and Production Performance of Holstein Cows in Peripartum

This study was to determine the effect of anionic salts on health and production performance of Holstein cows during the peripartum period. Twenty-four Holstein cows during the peripartum period were selected and divided into control group and experimental group. Twelve Holstein dairy cows in control group were fed diets with original concentrate,while twelve cows in experimental group were fed diets with concentrates adding anionic salts for the last 21 days before expected calving. All animals were ad libitum fed with the same diets after calving. The results showed that urine pH maintained 5.7 to 6.9,and blood pH was decreased significantly compared to control group (P<0.05). However,the contents of plasma Ca,glucose and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in experimental group were significantly increased in 1 d after calving (P<0.05). What's more, the incidences of hypocalcemia,milk fever,retained placenta,displaced abomasum and mastitis were reduced in experimental group and the incidences of retained placenta was significantly decreased (P<0.05). No significant difference was detected in milk yield between two groups (P>0.05). In summary,supplementation of anionic salts concentrate could help to keep the health and plasma Ca homeostasis of Holstein cows.