Reference Intervals for Some Serum Chemistry Parameters for the Ankole Long-Horned Cows

Richard M. Kabuusu

Abstract

The aim of this study was to establish reference intervals for routine serum chemistry parameters for the indigenous Ankole long-horned cows. 131 cows in western Uganda were randomly selected and clinically examined. Fecal and blood samples were obtained from cows and examined in the laboratory. Sample analyses on specimens negative for intestinal and blood parasites were performed using a photometric clinical chemistry analyzer. Homogeneity of observed values was determined using the Kolmogorov-Smirnov test and non-parametric data were transformed using natural logarithms. Outliers were detected using Grubb’s test. Means and standard deviations were calculated using PH stat 2 for each serum chemistry parameter. Simple linear regression was used to determine the effect of the cow’s age on each measured chemistry parameter. Reference intervals for AST, ALP, GGT, CK, Protein, Albumin, Globulin, Creatinine, Urea, Magnesium and Phosphate are reported. Veterinarians and researchers working with Ankole long-horned cows should use these reference intervals when they make clinical, diagnostic or research decisions about them.