Maternal Injectable Mineral Administration Effects on Calf Growth and Reproductive Parameters

Area of Science:

• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Limited research exists on maternal trace mineral supplementation's effect on offspring fertility.
• Trace minerals are crucial for fetal development and reproductive function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of maternal injectable mineral administration during gestation on offspring growth and reproductive parameters.
• To determine if injectable trace minerals improve sperm quality in male offspring.

Main Methods:

• 278 cows were assigned to receive injectable minerals (MM) or a control (CON) during mid/late gestation.
• Offspring birth and weaning weights were recorded.
• Semen quality, including progressive motility, was assessed in a subset of bulls at one year of age.

Main Results:

• Calves from supplemented mothers (MM) were heavier at birth compared to controls (CON).
• A significant treatment by parity interaction showed improved sperm progressive motility in MM bulls.
• No improvements in sperm quality were detected via flow cytometry.

Conclusions:

• Maternal injectable mineral supplementation during gestation positively influences offspring birth weight.
• Supplementation enhances sperm progressive motility in male offspring, particularly in multiparous cows.
• Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms behind these reproductive improvements.