Effect of body condition score on dynamics of hemogram in periparturient Holstein cows

The aim of the present study was to show the effect of body condition score (BCS) on dynamics of hemogram in periparturition Holstein cows in a dairy environment. Sixty-seven Holstein cows from a commercial dairy farm were allocated in three-under, moderate, and over condition-groups. They were sampled and were hematologically analyzed every 10 days from 30 days to calving until 30 days postpartum. Values were compared among groups and within each group by one-way and repeated measure ANOVA, respectively. Correlation of BCS and parameters were measured by Pearson's method. Hematocrit, erythrocyte counts, and hemoglobin (Hb) values significantly declined after calving (P < 0. 05). Mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) showed higher values than normal reference values. Leukocyte and neutrophil counts were within normal limits but inclined at calving. Lymphocyte counts declined at calving. Total plasma solids were within normal values, except on calving days, which the values declined. Fibrinogen values were within normal limits throughout, with a tendency to increase in postpartum period in moderate and over condition cows. BCS values showed significant correlations with hematocrit (rpre = 0. 318, rpost = 0. 357), Hb (rpre = 0. 276, rpost = 0. 295), MCV (rpre = 0. 371, rpost = 0. 304), MCH (rpre = 0. 355, rpost = 0. 184), leukocyte (rpost = -0. 148), lymphocyte (rpost = -0. 160), and fibrinogen (rpre = -0. 175) (P < 0. 05). A trend to a normocytic normochromic anemia was seen after calving, contributed to possible metabolic impairments and nutritional deficiencies. Leukocyte alterations on calving day showed the stress leukon pattern. Higher BCS values showed a positive effect on erythron and negative influence on leukon and vice versa. © 2011 Springer-Verlag London Limited.