British Cattle Veterinary Association

The study involved measuring specific gravity, total viable bacterial count and mammary-associated serum amyloid A3 (M-SAA3) in colostrum samples from 52 commercial dairy cows (including 4 heifers). Parity, dry period length, yield in previous lactation and body condition score of the cows were recorded to determine their possible effects on colostrum quality. Body condition score and dry period length had a significant effect on colostrum quality. Serum total protein of calves was measured at 3 to 5 days of age and growth rates of calves were determined. The data from the calves was used to determine the effects of the colostrum parameters measured on the health of the calves. Colostrum specific gravity and serum total protein of the calves were positively correlated (r=0.5) (p<0.01). Calves with greater serum total protein had greater growth rates. The possibility of an effect of M-SAA3 on calf growth is demonstrated.