Comparison of Serum Biochemical Parameters in Ketotic and Healthy Siirt Colored Mohair Goats During Early Lactation to Identify Potential Biomarkers of Lactation Ketosis

Abstract

This study aimed to compare serum biochemical parameters between ketotic and healthy Siirt colored mohair goats during early lactation, to diagnose subclinical lactation ketosis and identify potential biomarkers. A total of 77 female goats, aged 2 to 5 years and within 30 days postpartum, were evaluated under similar management conditions. The animals were classified into two groups based on serum beta-hydroxybutyric acid levels: subclinical lactational ketosis (n = 37) and health controls (n = 40). beta-hydroxybutyric acid levels were significantly elevated in the ketosis group (0.891 +/- 0.0141 mmol<middle dot>L-1) compared to the control group (0.595 +/- 0.0159 mmol<middle dot>L-1, P<0.001), confirming its diagnostic value. Other serum parameters did not show significant differences between the groups (P>0.05). On the other hand, effect size analysis revealed that glucose level decreased in does with subclinical lactational ketosis while cholesterol increased (large effect size). The study concluded that most liver and metabolic indicators remained within normal ranges, while glucose and cholesterol levels changed due to subclinical lactational ketosis. These data indicate that feeding based on pasture under extensive conditions may be insufficient to meet the energy requirements of does in lactation and emphasize the importance of early biochemical screening during lactation for effective management of metabolic disorders during early lactation stage in goats. Therefore, it is recommended the further studies to expand the knowledge of the effect of lactational ketosis on metabolic changes in goats.