Peripartum Metabolic Adaptation: Comprehensive Biochemical, Mineral, and Endocrine Profiles in Baggara Cattle (Bos indicus) During Gestation, Parturition, and Early Lactation

Background: The periparturient period imposes substantial metabolic demands on dairy cattle, with adaptation failure predisposing to production diseases (Drackley, 1999). Breed-specific reference data are essential for indigenous breeds like Baggara cattle.

Objective: To characterize changes in serum biochemical parameters, minerals, and enzymes in Baggara cattle throughout gestation and the peripartum period.

Methods: Eight pregnant Baggara cows were monitored monthly during gestation (Experiment 1) and through parturition to 60 days postpartum (Experiment 2). Serum was analyzed for metabolites (total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, urea, creatinine, triacylglycerols), minerals (Ca, P, Na, K), enzymes (AST, ALT), and
progesterone.

Results: During gestation, albumin increased significantly from day 65 (4.46±0.56 g/dL) to day 275 (4.64±0.54 g/dL; P<0.05), while globulin decreased at days 95 (2.13±1.00 g/dL) and 155 (2.25±0.85 g/dL). Cholesterol doubled from 97.73±26.95 mg/dL (non-pregnant) to 175.0±11.90 mg/dL by day 245 (P < 0.01). Minerals and enzymes remained stable throughout gestation. At parturition, progesterone declined from 11.73±0.81 pg/mL (72h pre-calving) to 3.21±0.57 pg/mL (48h postpartum; P<0.001). AST was elevated at calving (81.46±5.42 U/L) compared to postpartum (70.80±4.29 U/L; P < 0.05). Cholesterol decreased postpartum from 162.9±7.08 mg/dL (calving) to 150.0±8.34 mg/dL by day 45 (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Baggara cattle maintain remarkable metabolic homeostasis during the peripartum period, with adaptive changes primarily in protein metabolism and cholesterol. The transient AST elevation at calving represents physiological stress. These findings establish breed-specific reference values and demonstrate the metabolic resilience of this indigenous breed.

Keywords: Baggara Cattle, Transition Period, Metabolic Adaptation, Peripartum Biochemistry, Hypocalcemia, Negative Energy Balance.