The Utilization of Fetal Stores of Vitamin A by the Newborn Calf

Abstract

One million U.S.P. units of vit A were fed daily to the dam for 30 days prior to the calculated parturition date and the effect of this supplement on blood plasma levels and liver storage of carotene and vit. A were measured in 6 young male dairy calves fed only reconstituted skim milk. Parallel measurements were made on 3 control calves. A depression in blood plasma levels of carotene, an increase in blood plasma levels of vit. A and a greater liver storage of vit. A at 10 days of age in calves from dams fed supplementary vit. A indicate that the fetal storage of vit. A can be utilized by the neonatal calf.