Use of Innovative Technology Recorded and Blood Biochemical Biomarkers For the Assessment of Stress Caused By Regrouping in Dairy Cows
Year: 2026
Type: dissertation
Abstract: Purpose: To evaluate the effects of regrouping stress in dairy cows using Innovative Technology (IT) data and blood biochemical markers. Material-Method: IT data (eating and rumination time, activity, milk yield and composition) and blood samples were collected from 12 cows—6 controls (maintained in stable groups for ≥7 days) and 6 experimental cows (regrouped post-calving). Sampling occurred 24 hours before, 24 hours after, and 7 days after regrouping, with an additional collection 1 hour post-regrouping for the experimental cows. Serum was analyzed for cortisol, CRP, NEFA, and liver function parameters (AST, GGT, ALB). Results: Behavioral indicators in the investigated group changed markedly, with eating time peaking at 12 hours post-regrouping and rumination time showing an opposite trend. Physiological responses included a significant rise in cortisol (+57.7%) and transient NEFA and CRP spikes in the investigated group, while AST and GGT increased moderately and albumin decreased slightly; the control group remained largely stable. ROC analysis identified cortisol (AUC = 0.735, p = 0.005) as the most informative biomarker, and CRP as significant but inversely associated (AUC = 0.241, p = 0.003), achieving strong discrimination when evaluated under the correct direction (Youden’s J = 0.500 at ≤ 7.73). NEFA and AST showed moderate, non-significant discrimination, whereas GGT and ALB exhibited weak classification performance. Conclusion: Regrouping induces measurable stress in dairy cows, affecting both physiology and productivity. IT-based monitoring offers a practical approach for assessing stress and animal welfare on farms.
Language: English
Subfield: Animal Science and Zoology
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7161367151