Effect of monensin delivery method on dry matter intake, body condition score, and metabolic parameters in transition dairy cows

An investigation was conducted to compare the effects of the monensin controlled-release capsule, monensin sodium in feed, and a negative control on feed intake and metabolic parameters in a randomized and blinded clinical trial. A total of 136 Holstein cows and heifers were assigned to a negative control group, administered a monensin controlled-release capsule (CRC) or administered 22 mg/kg of dry matter of monensin sodium in the total mixed ration (premix). Cows were enrolled 3 wk prior to expected calving; at this time monensin treatment began. Cows were located at the Elora Dairy Research Centre (Elora, Ontario, Canada). Blood samples were obtained at enrollment, at 1 wk prior to expected calving date, at calving, and at 1 and 2 wk postpartum. Sera from these samples were analyzed for β-hydroxybutyrate (BHBA), nonesterified fatty acids, glucose, urea, bilirubin, aspartate aminotransferase activity, insulin, and cortisol. Cows were assigned a body condition score upon enrollment and upon completion of the trial. The dry matter intake was measured for all cows for the entire experimental period (12.0, 11.7, and 11.3 kg/d for control, premix, and CRC groups, respectively). However, no differences in dry matter intake between treatment groups were noted. The interaction of experimental group and sampling time was significant for serum concentration of BHBA and urea. Both monensin delivery methods significantly decreased serum BHBA postpartum. Urea concentrations were increased in the postpartum period compared with the prepartum samples. The CRC group had a significant impact on reducing the loss in body condition over the study period. Serum concentrations of all measured metabolic parameters varied over the peripartum period. Calving season, parity, and body condition score at the start of the study period influenced many of the measured metabolic parameters.