Physiological Correlates of Holstein Heifer Body Weight: Implications for Management

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to predict arid and semi-arid of heifer body characteristics using physiological data. Twenty heifers were weighed on an electronic scale, and heart girth (HG) was recorded. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein, and serum was harvested. Blood parameters such blood urea nitrogen, BUN; glucose, Glc; and total protein, TP. In addition, blood hematological indices (red blood cells, white blood cells, lymphocytes, and hemoglobin) were measured. The growth of the body has resulted in an increase in weight, which has been steadily climbing over time. The body weight was ranged between 319 and 328 kg. There was no correlation between any of the physiological parameters and the live weight of the animals. While, there was a significant inverse correlation (P<0.001) between total protein and the vast majority of the other parameters. The multiple regression analysis shows a direct relationship between Glc and BUN as independent influencing factors on the characteristic that was being studied, which was body weight. Furthermore, with an average GLc measurement, the body weight rose by approximately 8. Overall, physiology as a predictor may be applied. Though, it is not sufficient for predicting live weight.