Metabolic profile of the blood of cows with microelement deficiency

Essential trace elements are fundamental in maintaining metabolic homeostasis and physiological resilience in dairy cattle. A deficiency of trace elements such as cobalt, copper, and zinc can disrupt enzymatic activity, antioxidant defense systems, and energy metabolism, leading to subclinical or clinical disorders. This study aims to assess changes in the metabolic profile of dry cows under trace element deficiency by analyzing key blood biochemical parameters. The article presents a comprehensive analysis of clinical and metabolic indicators in cows from farms in the Rivne region affected by a deficiency of biogenic trace elements (Co, Cu, Zn). During clinical examination, cows exhibited characteristic signs of trace element deficiencies, including reduced appetite, pica, pallor of visible mucous membranes (in 65 % of cows), coarse and dull hair coat, decreased skin elasticity, underdeveloped subcutaneous fat, weakened intestinal peristalsis, and rumen hypotonia. In addition, 95 % of animals displayed physiological parameters at the lower limits of normal: pulse rate, respiration, rumen contractions, and body temperature were all at the lower end of acceptable values. Tachycardia (85–95 bpm) and tachypnea (35–45 breaths per minute) were observed in 20.8 % of cows. Furthermore, 45.8 % of animals showed poor body condition with compact body structure. Due to micronutrient deficiencies, animal productivity decreased significantly, and 15 % of cows showed symptoms of osteodystrophy, such as gait disturbances, rib protrusion, joint pain, and softening of tail vertebrae. Changes in the metabolic profile of dry cows associated with disrupted metabolism of Co, Cu, and Zn were established. Specifically, the total protein content in blood serum decreased by 22.4 % (P < 0.001), albumin by 30.7 % (P < 0.001), cholesterol by 32.6 % (P < 0.001), and triglycerides by 31.6 % (P < 0.001). In contrast, bilirubin levels increased by 27.1 % (P < 0.001), AST activity by 59.8 % (P < 0.001), ALT by 13.9 %, ALP by 26.6 %, creatinine by 25.5 % (P < 0.001), and urea by 24.6 % compared to clinically healthy animals.