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Veterinary analysis

Why is it important to measure the metabolic profile in ruminants?

In the world of livestock production, every detail matters when it comes to ensuring animal welfare and optimizing performance. One of the most valuable tools to achieve this is the analysis of the metabolic profile, a diagnostic approach that allows for a comprehensive assessment of ruminant health.

What is the metabolic profile?

It is a blood test focused on analytes that reflect the balance between nutrient intake, metabolism, and utilization in the animal's body. When this balance is disrupted, the first visible signs are reduced productivity and, in more severe cases, the onset of metabolic or reproductive disorders.

Which analytes should be assessed?

A complete metabolic profile includes key markers that allow for early detection of imbalances:

Energy balance

  • Glucose: Direct indicator of energy availability.

  • NEFA (non-esterified fatty acids) and β-Hydroxybutyrate: Indicate fat mobilization, useful for detecting ketosis.

  • Cholesterol: Linked to nutritional status and liver function.

 

Protein balance

  • Total proteins and Albumin: Reflect nutritional and liver status.

  • Urea: Associated with protein metabolism and nitrogen-rich diets.

 

Liver function

  • AST, ALT, and GGT: Enzymes that help identify liver damage or metabolic stress.

 

Mineral balance

  • Calcium, Phosphorus, and Magnesium: Essential for neuromuscular, bone, and reproductive functions.

 

Immune system

  • While not always measured directly, immune status can be inferred from some of the above parameters and the clinical context.

When and how should sampling be done?

It's essential to choose the right time for sampling: prepartum, postpartum, or late lactation, as physiological demands vary with each stage. Individual samples provide more precise results, although group sampling is also possible if animals are homogeneous and representative.

 

Measuring the metabolic profile not only helps detect issues before clinical signs appear but also enables more effective nutritional and management adjustments. It is an invaluable tool for improving animal welfare and farm profitability.

Would you like to learn more about how to implement this analysis on your farm or in your lab?

At BioSystems, we develop efficient analytical solutions for veterinary diagnostics. We're here to help!

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