The Effect of Supplementation of Rumen-Protected Choline on Reproductive and Productive Performances of Dairy Cows

Simple Summary Choline is a key methyl donor synthesized endogenously in mammals, and its availability is important for various biological functions. A review of the literature presents controversial results and deals with the question of whether rumen-protected choline supplemented during the transition period significantly affects cows' health, production, and reproduction. However, most recent research shows that in dairy cattle, choline supplementation improves milk yield, composition, and fertility. We aimed to evaluate the effects of organic herbal preparations containing rumen-protected choline (RPC) in dairy cow milk's BHB and progesterone (P4) concentration changes, reproduction, and production performances. Cows were divided into the following two groups: The CHOL (n = 60) cow diet was supplemented with 10 g/day RPC from 20 days pre-calving to 20 days post-calving, and CONT (n = 60) were fed a conventional diet. BHB and P4 concentrations were measured at 5-64 DIM and 21-64 DIM, respectively, with DelPro 4.2. BHB was lower in the CHOL group at 5-64 DIM than CONT p > 0.05. The first post-calving P4 peak, p < 0.001, was determined earlier in the CHOL group, and the P4 profile during 21-64 DIM was similar, p > 0.05. The insemination rate was lower, and the interval between calvings was shorter. The first insemination time was earlier in the CHOL group, p < 0.05. Milk yield was higher in the CHOL group at 21-64 DIM, p > 0.05. The CHOL group had more fat in their milk at 31-60 DIM, p < 0.05. There were no significant differences in protein and SCC between the groups, p > 0.05. Based on our results, we concluded that the supplementation of RPC pre- and post-calving had statistically significant effects on the first peak of P4, and benefited the reproduction performances, milk yield, and milk fat during the early postpartum period.

Automated summary

Supplementation of rumen-protected choline pre- and post-calving had significant effects on the first peak of P4, benefiting reproduction performances, milk yield, and milk fat during the early postpartum period. However, there were no significant differences in protein and SCC in milk between the groups.