Effect of calf housing on plasma ascorbate and endocrine and immune function

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Veterinary Medicine
• Immunology

Background:

• Housing conditions significantly influence calf health and development.
• Understanding the impact of different housing systems on dairy calves is crucial for optimizing welfare and productivity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effects of indoor metal pens versus commercial calf hutches on physiological markers in dairy calves.
• To assess the impact of housing on plasma cortisol, antibody concentrations (IgG, IgM), and ascorbate levels.

Main Methods:

• Six calves per treatment were housed in either 1.2 m x 1.2 m metal pens or commercial hutches.
• Calves were deprived of colostrum and fed milk replacer until 56 days of age.
• Plasma samples were analyzed for cortisol, IgG, IgM, and ascorbate; antibody titers to keyhole limpet hemocyanin were also measured.

Main Results:

• Hutch-housed calves exhibited higher plasma IgG concentrations and antibody titers compared to pen-housed calves.
• Plasma cortisol concentrations were lower in hutch-housed calves.
• Plasma ascorbate levels were elevated in calves housed in hutches.

Conclusions:

• Housing dairy calves in 1.2 m x 1.2 m metal pens is associated with reduced plasma ascorbate, immunoglobulin G, and specific antibody titers, alongside higher cortisol levels, compared to housing in hutches.
• Calf housing systems significantly impact immune status and physiological stress markers.