Effect of β-carotene Supplementation on Italian Trotter Mare Peripartum.
When the mare's estrous cycle resumes in winter, the β-carotene content of hay is depleted. Sixty Italian trotter mares were randomly assigned to a Control or a Treated Group. Treated Group received 1g/d synthetic β-carotene for 15 days from parturition. Blood samples collected at parturition and on days 5, 10 and 15 after partum were analysed for β-carotene, vitamins A, progesterone, 17 β-estradiol, the energy parameters (glucose, cholesterol, NEFA), the protein profile (total protein, albumin, urea) and LDH. Some changes in these measures were attributable to treatment, which significantly affected β-carotene and 17 β-estradiol concentrations. A significant effect was also found on the resumption of estrous activity (χ(2) test=P<0.052).
Department of Food, agro-Engineering, Physical, agro-Economic and Landscape Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Brecce Bianche, I-60131, Ancona, Italy.
Maria Federica
MF
Trombetta
Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
Pier Attilio
PA
Accorsi
Department of Veterinary Morphophysiology and Animal Production, Alma Mater Studiorum University of Bologna, Ozzano Emilia, Italy.
Adalberto
A
Falaschini
horse; mare; reproduction activity; β-carotene