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[Catecholamine and cortisol concentrations in plasma from cattle at parturition]
Zentralblatt Fur Veterinarmedizin. Reihe A
|March 1, 1989
Summary
Pre-term birth induction in cows using prostaglandin or flumethasone does not negatively impact calf IgG levels. Flumethasone slightly reduced IgG, but overall, colostrum quality remains adequate for newborn calves.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Reproductive Physiology
- Endocrinology
Context:
- Investigating the physiological stress responses in cows during spontaneous and induced parturition.
- Assessing the impact of synthetic glucocorticoids (flumethasone) and prostaglandins on the periparturient period.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the stress levels of dams and calves during induced birth by measuring catecholamine and cortisol concentrations.
- To determine the effect of parturition induction methods on the immunoglobulin G (IgG) content in bovine colostrum.
Summary:
- Plasma norepinephrine and epinephrine levels in pregnant cows were comparable to controls, with norepinephrine increasing post-birth.
- Induced parturition did not significantly alter cortisol levels in dams, though neonates showed transiently higher catecholamine and cortisol concentrations.
- Prostaglandin induction did not affect colostrum IgG, while flumethasone caused a minor decrease (14.5%), indicating no significant negative impact on passive immunity transfer.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the physiological stress associated with induced calving in cattle.
- Suggests that induced parturition, particularly with prostaglandins, is unlikely to compromise passive immunity in newborn calves.
- Informs veterinary practices regarding the safety of using hormonal interventions for calving induction concerning colostrum quality.