Dose response trial in marginal hypophosphatemia of buffaloes

Abstract

A dose response trial with oral phosphorus supplementation was conducted in hypophosphatemic (Plasma Pi 4.34±0.24 mg/dl) buffaloes (n=14) by feeding dicalcium phosphate (DCP) daily for 2 months. All the animals under the study were lactationally and physiologically comparable. Blood, milk and rumen liquor samples were collected before, at 30^th and 60^th days of supplementation. Phosphorus supplementation improved body condition score (BCS) without any remarkable effect on plasma inorganic phosphorus (Pi), calcium and ALP activity. No significant effect of oral P supplementation was observed on milk yield of buffaloes. Mean TVFA and ammonia nitrogen concentration in rumen fluid and plasma urea nitrogen and milk urea nitrogen were unaffected. The improved body condition in supplemented animals may be attributed to improved P responsive metabolism.