Aphosphorosis in North Yemen cattle

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Nutrition
• Biochemistry

Background:

• A novel syndrome of unthriftiness, stiffness, anorexia, recumbency, and pica was observed in cattle in the Yemen Arab Republic.
• The condition primarily affected housed cows in the Central and Northern Highlands, fed lucerne and sorghum stalks, often supplemented with domestic scraps.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the first reported syndrome of unthriftiness in cattle in Yemen.
• To identify the etiological factors and nutritional deficiencies associated with the observed clinical signs.

Main Methods:

• Clinical examination of affected cattle.
• Biochemical analysis of blood inorganic phosphorus, serum calcium, and magnesium levels.
• Nutritional analysis of the primary diet components (lucerne and sorghum stalks).

Main Results:

• Affected cattle exhibited low blood inorganic phosphorus (0.6 mmol/litre) with normal serum calcium and magnesium.
• Blood phosphorus and serum calcium levels showed a negative correlation and seasonal fluctuations.
• The diet was adequate for maintenance but deficient in phosphorus, energy, and protein for milk production, with high calcium:phosphorus ratios (8.8–16.5:1).

Conclusions:

• The syndrome is strongly indicative of phosphorus deficiency, leading to osteomalacia.
• Dietary imbalances, particularly low phosphorus and high calcium, are the likely cause.
• Recommendations for dietary supplementation are crucial for preventing and treating this condition in Yemen's cattle population.