SummaryConsiderable information is available in the literature concerning the levels of organic and inorganic constituents of blood of normal animals. It is well established that levels of many of these constituents are affected by season, age, breed, growth and other factors (Greatorex, 1957; Bhannasiri, 1960; Luitingh, 1962; Wilson, 1965). It is surprising, however, that little attention has been given to the relationship between these constituents of blood. Occasional reports on the relationship of a few constituents are available, but these were mostly studied in connection with the response of animals to a specific ration or certain ailment.

SUMMARYThe blood of 12 Afrikaner cows and their calves and 12 Friesland cows and their calves were analysed for 12 constituents to study the effect of breed on the composition. Breed had a significant effect on the composition of blood. The haemoglobin, erythrocyte, alkaline phosphatase, potassium and calcium content of the blood of the Afrikaner cows were statistically significantly higher, and the glucose and globulin significantly lower, than those of Friesland cows. In respect of the calves, differences were statistically significant for haemoglobin, erythrocytes, alkaline phosphatase, glucose, calcium, albumin and non-protein nitrogen.