Effects of Rumen Protected Choline and Propylene Glycol on Metabolism in Dairy Cows with Low Body Condition

Rumen protected choline (RPC), propylene glycol (PG) are used for preventing fatty liver disease and ketosis. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of RPC, PG on metabolism in dairy cows with low body condition. The study included 32 multiparous Holstein cows (n=32) aged 3-6 years with a body condition score (BCS) of 2 to 2.5. The animals were divided into two groups using the random sampling method. The experimental group (n=16) received 60 g/d of RPC and 250 ml/d of PG by oral administration for one-week prepartum (7±5 days) and another week postpartum. The control group (n=16) received no RPC and PG. Blood samples were examined for calcium, Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT), Non-Esterified Fatty Acids (NEFA), β-hydroxybutyric acid (BHBA), urea, and triglycerides. All cows in the study received the same care and food routine. RPC and PG supplementation had a effect on blood concentrations of NEFA, urea, and triglycerides (p<0.05). Therefore, using RPC and PG could reduce the incidence of ketosis and fatty liver disease by significantly lowering blood triglyceride levels. Accordingly, it is thought that an increase in the NEFA and BHBA ratios could lead to fatty liver and ketosis. Statistical analysis revealed that the oral supplementation of RPC and PG to dairy cows in the experimental group had a statistically significant effect on the blood triglyceride, NEFA concentrations. As a result, using RPC and PG in dairy cows could help to lower the risk of ketosis and fatty liver disease since blood triglyceride levels decreased significantly.