Effects of Niacin Supplementation on Hematological Profile and Post-Transportation Recovery in Madura Cattle

This study investigated the effects of niacin supplementation (1000 mg/head/day) on the recovery rate of Madura beef cattle after long-distance transportation. A total of 14 Madura bulls (body weight 224.64 ± 13.1 kg) were transported for 12 hours (911 km) and observed for 28 days post-transportation. Cattle were evenly divided into two treatments: control (n=7) and niacin supplementation (n=7). The parameters observed were feed intake, blood glucose level, and hematological profile. Data was analyzed using repeated measures, ANOVA, and independent sample t-tests. Niacin supplementation significantly increased (P<0.05) hematocrit at 14 days post-transportation and decreased monocyte counts on day 7. However, niacin did not affect (P>0.05) feed intake, body weight gain, blood glucose, and other hematological parameters. Over time, neutrophil and eosinophil percentages gradually increase (P<0.05). This study concludes that niacin supplementation at 1000 mg/head/day influenced hematological recovery by modulating monocyte and hematocrit levels but did not impact cattle performance and blood glucose levels. Higher supplementation or prolonged supplementation duration is required to enhance post-transportation recovery in Madura cattle.