Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Monensin and Yeast Metabolites on Hematological and Biochemical Profiles of Lactating Sahiwal Cattle

K
Kavita Khosla Chatley1,*
D
Dhirendra Bhonsle1
R
Ranjana Sinha2
N
Nishma Singh1
R
Rupal Pathak1
J
Jagriti Krishan3
K
Kajal Khosla4
K
Kranti Sharma5
1Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
2Department of Livestock Farm Complex, Bihar Veterinary College, Bihar Animal Sciences University, Patna-800 014, Bihar, India.
3Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
4Department of Agribusiness and Rural Management, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalay, Raipur-492 006, Chhattisgarh, India.
5Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
Background: The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites on haematological and biochemical parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows.

Methods: Eighteen lactating (18) cows were randomly selected from Bull Mother Experimental Farm (BMEF), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India. The selected animal allocated into three groups (six in each) based on parity and milk yield: control (T1), monensin supplemented (T2), yeast metabolite supplemented (T3). The experiment was conducted for 90 days and blood samples were collected at 0th, 30th, 60th and 90th days.

Result: The results revealed that haemoglobin (Hb), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and total leukocyte count (TLC) did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatment groups. However, packed cell volume (PCV) increased significantly (P<0.05) within treatments. Differential leukocyte count did not exhibit significant changes among the treatment groups. However, the lymphocyte percentage showed a slight initial increase followed by a decrease, whereas the neutrophil percentage increased over time. In contrast, monocyte, eosinophil and basophil percentages remained unaffected and did not differ significantly. Among biochemical parameters, total protein and globulin levels increased significantly (P<0.05), particularly in the yeast metabolite supplemented group. Serum albumin showed no significant variation. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol and glucose levels increased significantly (P<0.05) over the experimental period, with higher values observed in supplemented groups. Liver enzymes showed variable responses, with AST exhibiting significant changes (P<0.05), while ALT remained non-significant. It can be concluded that supplementation of yeast metabolites improved metabolic and immune status, suggesting their potential as effective feed additives in lactating Sahiwal cows.
In the last few decades, the dairy industry has focused on getting more milk by using targeted genetic selection and better nutrition management by improving feed efficiency and lactational performance by supplementation of feed additives. Nutritional interventions using feed additives such as ionophores and probiotics have been extensively explored to improve rumen function, nutrient utilisation and animal performance. Monensin sodium, a polyether ionophore, modifies rumen microbial populations by selectively inhibiting gram-positive bacteria, thereby increasing propionate production and improving energy utilization efficiency (Duffield et al., 2008: Santos et al., 2025). Monensin modulates the ruminal microbial population, favoring propionate production while reducing the acetate-to-propionate ratio (Scharen et al., 2017; Ngu et al., 2020; Mendoza-Cortéz et al., 2022). The increased availability of propionate enhances hepatic gluconeogenesis, thereby lowering blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations and improving the overall energy status of dairy cows (Duffield et al., 2008; Drong et al., 2016; Gonzalez-Chappe et al., 2025). It has been shown that supplementing with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) increases rumen fermentation, stabilizes rumen pH and increases feed efficiency, milk quality and milk yield (Poppy et al., 2012; Acharya et al., 2017; Dias et al., 2018). Lactating dairy cows undergo considerable metabolic, physiological and immunological stress, particularly during the early lactation period, which can adversely affect their productivity, health status and immune function. Yeast and yeast-derived metabolites, particularly from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, are widely used as probiotic feed additives in ruminant nutrition due to their positive effects on rumen ecology and host metabolism. Yeast supplementation improves rumen microbial balance, enhances fibre digestibility, stabilizes rumen pH and promotes nutrient utilization (Habeeb, 2017; Manuel et al., 2019). The yeast contains bioactive compounds such as amino acids, vitamins, antioxidants and β-glucans, which contribute to improve immune function and metabolic health (Salminen et al., 2021; Pang et al., 2022; Chae et al., 2024). Furthermore, yeast supplementation has been reported to increase dry matter intake, milk production and feed efficiency while reducing the inflammatory responses and also improving liver function during the transition period (Cattaneo et al., 2023). Yeast supplementation positively influenced in vitro dry matter degradability and improved the rumen fermentation pattern (Mohanty et al., 2023). Improvements in blood metabolites such as total protein and globulin following yeast supplementation further indicate enhanced immune status by the β-glucan fractions of yeast (Sanchez et al., 2021: El-Din et al., 2015).
       
Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites on haematological and biochemical parameters in lactating Sahiwal cows.
The present investigation was conducted on Sahiwal cows maintained at the Bull Mother Experimental Farm (BMEF), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India. The farm is situated at an altitude of 317 m above mean sea level between 20o23' to 22o02' N latitude and 80o46' to 81o58' E longitude. The region has a dry tropical climate with hot summers (up to 45oC), mild winters (minimum around 10oC) and monsoon rainfall extending from July to September (1,050 mm -1,335 mm).
       
Eighteen lactating purebred Sahiwal cows of early lactation, maintained under a uniform housing system (double-row conventional barn with concrete flooring), were randomly selected from the herd and were divided into three groups control (T0), treatment (T1 and T2) with six in each group based on parity and milk yield. In control (T0) group cow received basal diet only, cows in treatment (T1) received basal diet with Monensin sodium @ 1 g/head/day and cows in T2 group received basal diet with Yeast metabolites @ 3 g/head/day. The diet consisted of green fodder (Hybrid Napier, Sudan grass, Berseem and others local grasses), dry fodder and concentrate mixture. The concentrate contained 20% crude protein, 0.93% ether extract, 18% crude fiber and 14% total ash and was offered during morning and evening milking. The animals had free access to drinking water and were permitted to graze for about four hours every day. All animals were dewormed with fenbendazole (7.5-10 mg/kg body weight) before the start of the experiment. The duration of experiment was 90 days.

Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of individual animals in the morning before feeding and watering. For haematological analysis, approximately 5 ml blood sample were collected in EDTA vacutainer tubes, while for biochemical analysis, samples were collected in clot-activator vials. Sampling was carried out on 0th day, 30th day, 60th day and 90th day of the experimental periods. The estimation of various hematological parameters such as haemoglobin (Hb)%, TEC, TLC, DLC and PCV were done by hematology analyzer.
       
For serum separation, blood samples were collected in clot-activator vials were kept at room temperature in an inclined position (approximately 45o) for 60-120 minutes to allow clot formation. The samples were then centrifuged at 1000 rpm for 10 minutes and the clear supernatant serum were transferred into Eppendorf tubes and stored at -20oC for further analysis. The biochemical parameters were analysed by Ebra chem-7 semi-automated machine using standard diagnostic kits.
 
Statistical analysis
 
The data were analyzed by One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical programme software version 27 (SPSS-27). The mean of different treatment groups was compared using Duncan’s multiple range test as described by Snedecor and Cochran (1994). Differences were considered significant at P<0.05.
Haematological parameters
 
Haematological and biochemical parameters are reliable indicators of the physiological, metabolic and health status of dairy animals. The haematological parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows, grouped for different dietary treatments, for the study are presented in Table 1 and 2. In the present study, haemoglobin (Hb%), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and total leukocyte count (TLC) did not differ significantly among treatment groups, indicating that supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites had no effect on haematological status. Although small numerical variations were observed across different sampling intervals, these changes were statistically non-significant, indicating that supplementation had no adverse effect on basic hematological indices.  Similar findings have been reported by Martineau et al., (2007), Helal and Lasheen (2008), Sadjadian et al., (2013) and Anassori et al., (2015) for monensin and by Abou-Elenin et al. (2011) and El-Din et al. (2015) for yeast supplementation.

Table 1: Mean value (±SE) of hematological parameters of Sahiwal cows



Table 2: Differential leukocyte count (Mean ± SE) of Sahiwal cows.


       
The mean packed cell volume (PCV) was non-significantly different between groups, but at the 90th-day observation the mean value of PCV was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the yeast-supplemented group as compared to the control and monensin-supplemented groups. Packed cell volume (PCV) showed a significant (P<0.05) increase within treatments from day 0th, 30th, 60th and day 90th, reflecting improved physiological status of the animals. However, differences among treatments were non-significant. Packed cell volume (PCV) increased significantly within treatments, which may be attributed to improved nutritional status and enhanced erythropoiesis.
 
Differential leukocyte
 
Differential leukocyte count did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatment groups throughout the experimental period. However, numerical variations were observed among treatments. Lymphocyte percentage was slightly increased in yeast metabolite (T2) groups at 30th days while neutrophil percentage was relatively lower in T2 group, indicating mild stress during transition period. Monocyte, eosinophil and basophil percentages remained comparable across all treatments with no significant differences. Differential leukocyte count showed decreased lymphocyte and increased neutrophil percentages, suggesting improved immune status and reduced stress. Yeast supplementation was known to enhance immune response through improved rumen microbial balance (Nocek et al., 2011; Chae et al., 2024). However, there was no significant differences among the treatment groups and was in agreement with Bagheri et al., (2009) and Khormizi et al., (2010). Feeding of yeast culture in dairy cows resulted in elevated blood eosinophil counts and reduced lymphocyte percentages, enhanced neutrophil activity indicating modulation of immune function associated with the acute phase reaction in lactating cows (Martins et al., 2023).
 
Biochemical parameter
 
The biochemical parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows under different dietary treatments are presented in Table 3. The biochemical parameter like serum total protein showed a significant (P<0.05) increase among treatments at the 60th and 90th days, with higher values recorded in the yeast metabolite supplemented group (T2). Similarly, globulin concentration increased significantly (P<0.05), with T2 showing the highest values at 60th and 90th days. The within-group analysis also indicated significant improvement in globulin levels in T2, suggesting enhanced immune status.

Table 3: Biochemical parameters (Mean ± SE) of Sahiwal cows.


       
Serum albumin levels did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatments or within treatments throughout the experimental period, indicating stable protein metabolism. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels increased significantly (P<0.05) within treatments over time, with values rising progressively from the day 0th to day 90th in all groups. However, differences among treatments were non-significant. The increased BUN may be associated with enhanced protein metabolism.
       
Serum AST values showed significant (P<0.05) variation among treatments at initial stages, but differences were non-significant at later stages. Within treatments, AST levels were increased significantly over time. In contrast, ALT levels did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among or within treatments, indicating no effect of supplementation on liver function. Serum cholesterol levels increased significantly (P<0.05) over the experimental period, with higher values observed in supplemented groups, particularly T2. Significant differences among treatments were observed at the 30th and 90th days. Blood glucose levels showed a significant (P<0.05) increase both among and within treatments. The highest values were observed in the monensin supplemented group (T1), followed by T2 group. This indicates improved energy metabolism due to dietary supplementation.
       
Among biochemical parameters, total protein and globulin increased significantly, particularly in the yeast supplemented group, indicating improved protein metabolism and immune function. Similar improvements have been reported by Abou-Elenin et al. (2011) and El-Din et al. (2015). Serum albumin remained unchanged, suggesting normal liver function. Similar findings were reported by Gupta et al., (2018), who observed increased blood glucose concentration in lactating buffaloes supplemented with monensin in the ration. The elevated glucose level may be attributed to enhanced ruminal propionate production induced by monensin, which serves as a major gluconeogenic precursor for hepatic glucose synthesis (McCarthy et al., 2015: Markantonatos et al., 2017).
       
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol and glucose were increased significantly during the experimental period, reflecting improved metabolic activity and nutrient utilization. Monensin supplementation enhanced propionate production and gluconeogenesis, leading to improved glucose levels (Duffield et al., 2008; Lamba et al., 2013). Yeast supplementation improves rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility, thereby enhancing metabolic efficiency (Nocek et al., 2011). Liver enzyme activity (AST and ALT) remained within normal range, indicating that supplementation did not cause hepatic stress. Similar findings had been reported by Martineau et al., (2007); Yalcin et al. (2011) and Cattaneo et al., (2023) confirming the safety of these feed additives.
       
The present results indicated that supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites improves metabolic and immune status without causing any detrimental effects on haematological and biochemical parameters in lactating Sahiwal cows.
Dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites has numerically improved blood parameters, which remained within normal physiological ranges. Improved packed cell volume and differential leukocyte counts have indicated enhanced immune status. Biochemical parameters, including total protein and globulin, have increased significantly, suggesting better protein metabolism and immunity. Elevated glucose, cholesterol and blood urea nitrogen levels have reflected improved metabolic activity and nutrient utilization, while liver enzymes remained within normal limits. Overall, yeast metabolites showed greater benefits in metabolic and immune status, whereas monensin primarily improved energy metabolism.
The authors are thankful to the Dean, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg for providing facilities to conduct this research work.
 
Informed consent
       
All animal handling and experimental procedures were approved by the University Animal Ethical Committee.
The all authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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Effect of Dietary Supplementation of Monensin and Yeast Metabolites on Hematological and Biochemical Profiles of Lactating Sahiwal Cattle

K
Kavita Khosla Chatley1,*
D
Dhirendra Bhonsle1
R
Ranjana Sinha2
N
Nishma Singh1
R
Rupal Pathak1
J
Jagriti Krishan3
K
Kajal Khosla4
K
Kranti Sharma5
1Department of Livestock Production Management, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
2Department of Livestock Farm Complex, Bihar Veterinary College, Bihar Animal Sciences University, Patna-800 014, Bihar, India.
3Department of Veterinary Physiology and Biochemistry, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
4Department of Agribusiness and Rural Management, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalay, Raipur-492 006, Chhattisgarh, India.
5Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg-491 001, Chhattisgarh, India.
Background: The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites on haematological and biochemical parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows.

Methods: Eighteen lactating (18) cows were randomly selected from Bull Mother Experimental Farm (BMEF), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India. The selected animal allocated into three groups (six in each) based on parity and milk yield: control (T1), monensin supplemented (T2), yeast metabolite supplemented (T3). The experiment was conducted for 90 days and blood samples were collected at 0th, 30th, 60th and 90th days.

Result: The results revealed that haemoglobin (Hb), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and total leukocyte count (TLC) did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatment groups. However, packed cell volume (PCV) increased significantly (P<0.05) within treatments. Differential leukocyte count did not exhibit significant changes among the treatment groups. However, the lymphocyte percentage showed a slight initial increase followed by a decrease, whereas the neutrophil percentage increased over time. In contrast, monocyte, eosinophil and basophil percentages remained unaffected and did not differ significantly. Among biochemical parameters, total protein and globulin levels increased significantly (P<0.05), particularly in the yeast metabolite supplemented group. Serum albumin showed no significant variation. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol and glucose levels increased significantly (P<0.05) over the experimental period, with higher values observed in supplemented groups. Liver enzymes showed variable responses, with AST exhibiting significant changes (P<0.05), while ALT remained non-significant. It can be concluded that supplementation of yeast metabolites improved metabolic and immune status, suggesting their potential as effective feed additives in lactating Sahiwal cows.
In the last few decades, the dairy industry has focused on getting more milk by using targeted genetic selection and better nutrition management by improving feed efficiency and lactational performance by supplementation of feed additives. Nutritional interventions using feed additives such as ionophores and probiotics have been extensively explored to improve rumen function, nutrient utilisation and animal performance. Monensin sodium, a polyether ionophore, modifies rumen microbial populations by selectively inhibiting gram-positive bacteria, thereby increasing propionate production and improving energy utilization efficiency (Duffield et al., 2008: Santos et al., 2025). Monensin modulates the ruminal microbial population, favoring propionate production while reducing the acetate-to-propionate ratio (Scharen et al., 2017; Ngu et al., 2020; Mendoza-Cortéz et al., 2022). The increased availability of propionate enhances hepatic gluconeogenesis, thereby lowering blood β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) concentrations and improving the overall energy status of dairy cows (Duffield et al., 2008; Drong et al., 2016; Gonzalez-Chappe et al., 2025). It has been shown that supplementing with yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) increases rumen fermentation, stabilizes rumen pH and increases feed efficiency, milk quality and milk yield (Poppy et al., 2012; Acharya et al., 2017; Dias et al., 2018). Lactating dairy cows undergo considerable metabolic, physiological and immunological stress, particularly during the early lactation period, which can adversely affect their productivity, health status and immune function. Yeast and yeast-derived metabolites, particularly from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, are widely used as probiotic feed additives in ruminant nutrition due to their positive effects on rumen ecology and host metabolism. Yeast supplementation improves rumen microbial balance, enhances fibre digestibility, stabilizes rumen pH and promotes nutrient utilization (Habeeb, 2017; Manuel et al., 2019). The yeast contains bioactive compounds such as amino acids, vitamins, antioxidants and β-glucans, which contribute to improve immune function and metabolic health (Salminen et al., 2021; Pang et al., 2022; Chae et al., 2024). Furthermore, yeast supplementation has been reported to increase dry matter intake, milk production and feed efficiency while reducing the inflammatory responses and also improving liver function during the transition period (Cattaneo et al., 2023). Yeast supplementation positively influenced in vitro dry matter degradability and improved the rumen fermentation pattern (Mohanty et al., 2023). Improvements in blood metabolites such as total protein and globulin following yeast supplementation further indicate enhanced immune status by the β-glucan fractions of yeast (Sanchez et al., 2021: El-Din et al., 2015).
       
Therefore, the present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites on haematological and biochemical parameters in lactating Sahiwal cows.
The present investigation was conducted on Sahiwal cows maintained at the Bull Mother Experimental Farm (BMEF), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg, Chhattisgarh, India. The farm is situated at an altitude of 317 m above mean sea level between 20o23' to 22o02' N latitude and 80o46' to 81o58' E longitude. The region has a dry tropical climate with hot summers (up to 45oC), mild winters (minimum around 10oC) and monsoon rainfall extending from July to September (1,050 mm -1,335 mm).
       
Eighteen lactating purebred Sahiwal cows of early lactation, maintained under a uniform housing system (double-row conventional barn with concrete flooring), were randomly selected from the herd and were divided into three groups control (T0), treatment (T1 and T2) with six in each group based on parity and milk yield. In control (T0) group cow received basal diet only, cows in treatment (T1) received basal diet with Monensin sodium @ 1 g/head/day and cows in T2 group received basal diet with Yeast metabolites @ 3 g/head/day. The diet consisted of green fodder (Hybrid Napier, Sudan grass, Berseem and others local grasses), dry fodder and concentrate mixture. The concentrate contained 20% crude protein, 0.93% ether extract, 18% crude fiber and 14% total ash and was offered during morning and evening milking. The animals had free access to drinking water and were permitted to graze for about four hours every day. All animals were dewormed with fenbendazole (7.5-10 mg/kg body weight) before the start of the experiment. The duration of experiment was 90 days.

Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of individual animals in the morning before feeding and watering. For haematological analysis, approximately 5 ml blood sample were collected in EDTA vacutainer tubes, while for biochemical analysis, samples were collected in clot-activator vials. Sampling was carried out on 0th day, 30th day, 60th day and 90th day of the experimental periods. The estimation of various hematological parameters such as haemoglobin (Hb)%, TEC, TLC, DLC and PCV were done by hematology analyzer.
       
For serum separation, blood samples were collected in clot-activator vials were kept at room temperature in an inclined position (approximately 45o) for 60-120 minutes to allow clot formation. The samples were then centrifuged at 1000 rpm for 10 minutes and the clear supernatant serum were transferred into Eppendorf tubes and stored at -20oC for further analysis. The biochemical parameters were analysed by Ebra chem-7 semi-automated machine using standard diagnostic kits.
 
Statistical analysis
 
The data were analyzed by One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical programme software version 27 (SPSS-27). The mean of different treatment groups was compared using Duncan’s multiple range test as described by Snedecor and Cochran (1994). Differences were considered significant at P<0.05.
Haematological parameters
 
Haematological and biochemical parameters are reliable indicators of the physiological, metabolic and health status of dairy animals. The haematological parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows, grouped for different dietary treatments, for the study are presented in Table 1 and 2. In the present study, haemoglobin (Hb%), total erythrocyte count (TEC) and total leukocyte count (TLC) did not differ significantly among treatment groups, indicating that supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites had no effect on haematological status. Although small numerical variations were observed across different sampling intervals, these changes were statistically non-significant, indicating that supplementation had no adverse effect on basic hematological indices.  Similar findings have been reported by Martineau et al., (2007), Helal and Lasheen (2008), Sadjadian et al., (2013) and Anassori et al., (2015) for monensin and by Abou-Elenin et al. (2011) and El-Din et al. (2015) for yeast supplementation.

Table 1: Mean value (±SE) of hematological parameters of Sahiwal cows



Table 2: Differential leukocyte count (Mean ± SE) of Sahiwal cows.


       
The mean packed cell volume (PCV) was non-significantly different between groups, but at the 90th-day observation the mean value of PCV was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the yeast-supplemented group as compared to the control and monensin-supplemented groups. Packed cell volume (PCV) showed a significant (P<0.05) increase within treatments from day 0th, 30th, 60th and day 90th, reflecting improved physiological status of the animals. However, differences among treatments were non-significant. Packed cell volume (PCV) increased significantly within treatments, which may be attributed to improved nutritional status and enhanced erythropoiesis.
 
Differential leukocyte
 
Differential leukocyte count did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatment groups throughout the experimental period. However, numerical variations were observed among treatments. Lymphocyte percentage was slightly increased in yeast metabolite (T2) groups at 30th days while neutrophil percentage was relatively lower in T2 group, indicating mild stress during transition period. Monocyte, eosinophil and basophil percentages remained comparable across all treatments with no significant differences. Differential leukocyte count showed decreased lymphocyte and increased neutrophil percentages, suggesting improved immune status and reduced stress. Yeast supplementation was known to enhance immune response through improved rumen microbial balance (Nocek et al., 2011; Chae et al., 2024). However, there was no significant differences among the treatment groups and was in agreement with Bagheri et al., (2009) and Khormizi et al., (2010). Feeding of yeast culture in dairy cows resulted in elevated blood eosinophil counts and reduced lymphocyte percentages, enhanced neutrophil activity indicating modulation of immune function associated with the acute phase reaction in lactating cows (Martins et al., 2023).
 
Biochemical parameter
 
The biochemical parameters of lactating Sahiwal cows under different dietary treatments are presented in Table 3. The biochemical parameter like serum total protein showed a significant (P<0.05) increase among treatments at the 60th and 90th days, with higher values recorded in the yeast metabolite supplemented group (T2). Similarly, globulin concentration increased significantly (P<0.05), with T2 showing the highest values at 60th and 90th days. The within-group analysis also indicated significant improvement in globulin levels in T2, suggesting enhanced immune status.

Table 3: Biochemical parameters (Mean ± SE) of Sahiwal cows.


       
Serum albumin levels did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among treatments or within treatments throughout the experimental period, indicating stable protein metabolism. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels increased significantly (P<0.05) within treatments over time, with values rising progressively from the day 0th to day 90th in all groups. However, differences among treatments were non-significant. The increased BUN may be associated with enhanced protein metabolism.
       
Serum AST values showed significant (P<0.05) variation among treatments at initial stages, but differences were non-significant at later stages. Within treatments, AST levels were increased significantly over time. In contrast, ALT levels did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among or within treatments, indicating no effect of supplementation on liver function. Serum cholesterol levels increased significantly (P<0.05) over the experimental period, with higher values observed in supplemented groups, particularly T2. Significant differences among treatments were observed at the 30th and 90th days. Blood glucose levels showed a significant (P<0.05) increase both among and within treatments. The highest values were observed in the monensin supplemented group (T1), followed by T2 group. This indicates improved energy metabolism due to dietary supplementation.
       
Among biochemical parameters, total protein and globulin increased significantly, particularly in the yeast supplemented group, indicating improved protein metabolism and immune function. Similar improvements have been reported by Abou-Elenin et al. (2011) and El-Din et al. (2015). Serum albumin remained unchanged, suggesting normal liver function. Similar findings were reported by Gupta et al., (2018), who observed increased blood glucose concentration in lactating buffaloes supplemented with monensin in the ration. The elevated glucose level may be attributed to enhanced ruminal propionate production induced by monensin, which serves as a major gluconeogenic precursor for hepatic glucose synthesis (McCarthy et al., 2015: Markantonatos et al., 2017).
       
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN), cholesterol and glucose were increased significantly during the experimental period, reflecting improved metabolic activity and nutrient utilization. Monensin supplementation enhanced propionate production and gluconeogenesis, leading to improved glucose levels (Duffield et al., 2008; Lamba et al., 2013). Yeast supplementation improves rumen fermentation and nutrient digestibility, thereby enhancing metabolic efficiency (Nocek et al., 2011). Liver enzyme activity (AST and ALT) remained within normal range, indicating that supplementation did not cause hepatic stress. Similar findings had been reported by Martineau et al., (2007); Yalcin et al. (2011) and Cattaneo et al., (2023) confirming the safety of these feed additives.
       
The present results indicated that supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites improves metabolic and immune status without causing any detrimental effects on haematological and biochemical parameters in lactating Sahiwal cows.
Dietary supplementation of monensin sodium and yeast metabolites has numerically improved blood parameters, which remained within normal physiological ranges. Improved packed cell volume and differential leukocyte counts have indicated enhanced immune status. Biochemical parameters, including total protein and globulin, have increased significantly, suggesting better protein metabolism and immunity. Elevated glucose, cholesterol and blood urea nitrogen levels have reflected improved metabolic activity and nutrient utilization, while liver enzymes remained within normal limits. Overall, yeast metabolites showed greater benefits in metabolic and immune status, whereas monensin primarily improved energy metabolism.
The authors are thankful to the Dean, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Anjora, Durg for providing facilities to conduct this research work.
 
Informed consent
       
All animal handling and experimental procedures were approved by the University Animal Ethical Committee.
The all authors declare that they have no conflicts of interest.

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