Abstract
To evaluate the effects of chelated Zn/Cu/Mn on redox status, immune responses and hoof health in lactating Holstein cows, 48 head in early lactation were divided into healthy or lame groups according to their gait score. Cows were fed the same amount of Zn/Cu/Mn as sulfate salts or in chelated forms for 180 days, and foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) vaccine was injected at day 90. The results showed that lame cows had lower antioxidant function, serum Zn/Mn levels, hair Cu levels, and hoof hardness. Moreover, increased antioxidant status, FMD antibody titers, serum and hair levels of Zn/Cu/Mn, and hoof hardness and decreased milk fat percent and arthritis biomarkers were observed in cows fed chelated Zn/Cu/Mn. In summary, supplementation with chelated Zn/Cu/Mn improved antioxidant status and immune responses, reduced arthritis biomarkers, and increased accumulation of Zn/Cu/Mn in the body and hoof hardness in dairy cows.