Effect of rumen protected choline supplementation to maternal rations during prepartum on growth performance of calves

In this study, the effects of rumen protected choline (RUPC) supplementation to the ration during the prepartum period on colostrum IgG and nutrient composition and performance of calves until weaning were investigated. On the 20th day of the prepartum period, 17 Holstein pregnant cows were divided into two groups as Control (n= 8) and RUPC (n= 9). The groups were fed a total mixed ration (TMR) consisting of wheat straw, corn silage and dry period concentrate, and 15 g/day choline chloride was top dressed on the individual rations of the cows in the RUPC group. Colostrum samples were taken at birth (0th hour) and 36th hour. Body weight, wither height, hip height, body length, heart girth were taken at birth and then weekly until weaning. Prepartum addition of RUPC to the maternal ration did not affect gestation length, colostrum IgG and nutrient composition. In addition, body weight and body measurements of calves in the Control and RUPC groups were similar. As a result of this study, it can be concluded that the addition of 15 g/day RUPC to the maternal ration in the last 20 days of pregnancy may not cause changes in colostrum nutritional properties and calf performance. Keywords: Choline, Prepartum, Calves, Colostrum IgG, Body weight