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Adrenal function and passive immunity in the dystocial calf
Journal of Dairy Science
|October 1, 1978
Summary
Dystocial calves showed normal absorption of colostral immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM) and achieved adequate passive immunity, despite lower birth cortisol levels. Environmental temperature influenced cortisol but not immunoglobulin absorption.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Animal Science
- Neonatal Physiology
Background:
- Dystocia in calves can impact neonatal health and immune development.
- Passive immunity transfer via colostrum is crucial for calf survival.
- Cortisol levels at birth may reflect stress and influence neonatal adaptation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate passive immunity acquisition in dystocial calves.
- To compare immunoglobulin absorption between dystocial and eutocial calves.
- To investigate the relationship between birth cortisol, environmental temperature, and passive immunity.
Main Methods:
- Twenty dystocial and 20 eutocial calves received two 1-liter colostrum feedings.
- Serum concentrations of immunoglobulins A, G, and M were measured.
- Serum cortisol levels and environmental temperatures were recorded.
Main Results:
- Immunoglobulin absorption and passive immunity were equivalent in both calf groups.
- Cortisol concentrations were high at birth, negatively correlated with pre-parturition temperatures.
- Dystocial calves exhibited lower birth cortisol levels, but this did not affect immunoglobulin absorption.
Conclusions:
- Dystocia does not impair a calf's ability to absorb colostral immunoglobulins.
- Birth cortisol levels and environmental factors do not appear to influence passive immunity establishment in this context.
- Calves experiencing dystocia can still achieve competent passive immunity if fed colostrum appropriately.