Can Fecal Ph Be Used As An Alternative Indicator To Urine Ph For Monitoring Metabolic Changes In Pregnant Heifers Fed Anionic Salts?

This study examined the impact of anionic salt supplementation on urine pH, serum Brix values, selected serum parameters, and fecal characteristics in pregnant heifers. The research involved 8 heifers during the last 14 days prior to calving. The animals received either a control diet (without anionic salts) or an anionic diet (150 g/day ammonium chloride), which was formulated to induce a mild metabolic acidosis. Anionic salts were administered 7 days prior to the experimental period to facilitate the animals' adaptation to the anionic diet. Blood, urine, and fecal samples were collected approximately three days before parturition for biochemical and physical analysis. The results indicated that heifers fed an anionic diet had significantly lower urine pH compared to those on a normal diet, confirming the expected metabolic acidification. Additionally, serum chloride levels were significantly higher in the anionic diet group (p