Effect of a monensin controlled release capsule on metabolic parameters in transition dairy cows

A prospective field study involving 251 Holstein cows and heifers from five dairy farms near Guelph, Ontario, Canada, was conducted to measure the effect of monensin delivered in a controlled release capsule 3 wk precalving on metabolic function in dairy cows immediately pre- and postcalving. At 3 wk before expected calving, cows were randomly assigned to receive either a controlled release capsule containing monensin or to serve as negative controls. Cows were blood sampled once per week precalving and once in the week following calving, at the same time of day and the same day of the week. Serum was evaluated for beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA), cholesterol, urea, glucose, calcium, and phosphorus. Monensin-treated cows had significantly decreased NEFA and BHBA and significantly increased concentrations of serum cholesterol and urea in the week immediately precalving. No effect of treatment was observed for calcium, phosphorus, or glucose in the precalving period. After calving, concentrations of phosphorus were lower and BHBA tended to be lower, and cholesterol and urea were higher in monensin-treated cows. There was no effect of treatment on NEFA, glucose, or calcium in the first week postcalving. Monensin treatment administered precalving significantly improved indicators of energy balance in both the immediate precalving and postcalving periods. The findings indicate better energy metabolism in monensin-treated cows as they approach calving. Improvement of energy balance before calving is important for the prevention of energy associated metabolic diseases, such as retained placenta, clinical ketosis, and displaced abomasum, which might occur immediately postcalving.