Hematochemical parameters in calves before, during and after weaning to a regular diet

The Authors studied the changes of 17 blood parameters of calves before, during and after a traditional weaning. Concentrations of total protein, albumin, urea nitrogen, creatinine, glucose, cholesterol, triglycerides, alkaline phosphatase, total bilirubin and phosphorus were determined by an automated assay system; sodium, potassium and chloride by a flame photometer; calcium, magnesium, copper and zinc by an atomic absorption spectrophotometer. Observed changes can be referred to: 1) the change of the digestion (glucose); 2) the age of the subjects (alkaline phosphatase); 3) the increase of weight (creatinine); 4) the type of feeding (phosphorus, copper and zinc). Sodium, potassium, chloride, calcium and magnesium did not change during the weaning.