Colostral Constituents including Immunoglobulins in the First Three Milkings Postpartum

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Abstract
Colostral changes in immunoglobulin (IgG), dry matter, ash, total protein and whey protein were studied over the 1st 3 milkings postpartum. IgG concentration in colostrum from Holstein cows beginning their 1st, 2nd or 3rd lactation was similar. Older animals had more IgG in colostrum. Its rate of disappearance from colostrum was greater in younger animals. Dry matter, ash, total protein and whey protein concentrations decreased from the 1st to the 3rd milking (24 h) postpartum. Protein was the most variable constituent between cows at the same postpartum time.