Relationship between Early Postpartum Blood Composition and Reproductive Performance in Dairy Cattle

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Abstract
Blood samples were collected from 1 yr from 115 postpartum Holstein cows to determine the relationship between blood composition and reproductive performance. Blood samples were collected from each cow at 14-21 days (sample 1) and 38-45 days (sample 2) postpartum. These samples were analyzed for packed cell volume, Hb, total protein, Ca, P, Mg, Cu, Zn and Se. Blood composition varied little with lactation number and season and relationships were not consistent for the 2 collection periods. Hb, packed cell volume, total protein and Zn were negatively associated and Ca and Mg positively associated with at least 1 measure of milk yield. None of the blood components examined at the 2 collection periods had a consistent relationship to reproductive performance. The most important relationship was the positive relationship of Se concentration at 1st collection period with services per conception and days open. [Several mineral deficiencies have detrimental effects on reproductive performance and blood composition is one method of diagnosing a deficient condition.].