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Postnatal Assessment of Serum Amyloid A Concentrations and Biochemical Profiles In Lactating Female Donkeys and Newborn Donkey Foals

      Abstract

      Objective:Proper knowledge of biochemical parameters and inflammatory markers like serum amyloid A (SAA) is crucial in monitoring the first postpartum period in equids. Materials and Methods:Since no information is available on SAA for donkeys at this stage, 100 animals including lactating female donkeys (n.20) and newborn foals (n.20) within 48h from foaling, and lactating female donkeys (n.20) and foals (n.40) after 30 days from parturition were enrolled in the study to assess routine biochemical profile including SAA. Results:Lactating female donkeys showed higher alkaline phosphatase and lower bilirubins and cholesterol at 30 days of lactation compared to postpartum. Neonatal donkey foals showed significantly higher concentrations of sodium, alkaline phosphatase, lactic dehydrogenase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and albumin within 48h of age. In contrast, higher values of phosphate and triglycerides were observed in older foals of 30 days of age. Significant higher SAA concentrations were recorded during the peripartum period in both lactating female donkeys (27.69±1.67 μg/ml) and newborn donkey foals (39.62±18.58 μg/ml) compared to SAA values recorded in lactating female donkeys(13.59±2.76 μg/ml) and in donkey foals (15.87±19.42 μg/ml) at 30 days after parturition. Conclusion:Lactating female donkeys and foals were tested and assessed for SAA before and after parturition and one month postpartum. The assessment results are an important basis for monitoring the health of lactating female donkeys and foals at this stage, and now they are also facing new challenges, such as the peak lactation period of lactating female donkeys and the adaptation of the foal to the extra-uterine environment.