Evaluating the effects of rumenocentesis on health and performance in dairy cows

The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of the rumenocentesis procedure on dairy cows by determining various metabolic and physiologic parameters representing health status. Two groups of 6 cows either underwent rumenocentesis (GA) or sham (GB) procedures. Superficial skin temperature of the rumenocentesis area was measured using infrared thermography before the procedure (-1 hr), immediately after (0 hr), and at 48 h, 96 h, and 20 day following rumenocentesis. Blood samples were collected at all times, except immediately after the procedure (0 hr), and various immunologic response parameters determined. Milk yield and rectal temperatures were measured daily. The rumenocentesis procedure did not influence white blood cell count, haptoglobin or total protein concentrations. Electrophoretic protein fractions were not different between GA and GB treatments. Milk yield and rectal temperature were not affected by rumenocentesis. Skin temperature of the rumenocentesis region in GA group cows increased 1.0°C immediately after rumen collection and returned to baseline after 48 h where it remained constant through the end of the study; similar to what was observed in GB group cows. Results of this study would suggest minimal adverse effects on cow health and production when performing a rumenocentesis procedure for the diagnosis of subacute ruminal acidosis. Additional more intensive studies addressing animal welfare issues relative to diagnostic techniques are warranted.