Effects of omega 3 fatty acid sources in the prepartumdiet on performance and metabolic profile of calf

The study was conducted to determine the effect of omega-3 fat sources (flaxseed oil or fish oil) used in the ration during prepartum period on body weight and blood metabolic profile of pre-weaning calves. Twenty-five Holstein cows on the last 21 days of pregnancy were divided into two groups (flaxseed oil or fish oil group) according to live weight and lactation number. The groups were fed with total mixed diets (TMR) containing concentrate feeds included 8.5% (as fed basis) omega-3 fat sources. After colostral period, all calves were subjected to standard feeding (4 l/day whole milk, calf starter concentrate and alfalfa hay) system. Calves live weights were taken weekly. ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, glucose, total cholesterol, total protein and triglyceride concentrations were determined in individual blood samples taken weekly. At the end of the study, the effects of omega-3 fat sources on birth weight and weaning (8th week) weight were similar. Live weight change between birth and weaning was affected by omega-3 fat source and sex interaction. Linseed oil used in maternal diet decreased blood ALT and ALP concentrations of calves. The total protein concentration of blood was lower in female calves born from mothers receiving flaxseed oil than female calves, whereas female calves born from mothers receiving fish oil had lower values than male calves. Although the omega-3 fatty acid sources used in the TMR during prepartum period do not have a substantial effect on performance, flaxseed oil reduces the liver enzymes, especially ALT and ALP concentrations of blood.