Present investigation was carried out to find out the effect of vitamin D3 on milk production, circulatory hormones and plasma minerals in buffaloes. The lactating healthy buffaloes (12) were selected for experiment and divided equally as control and treatment groups. The treatment group buffaloes received vitamin D3 dietary supplementation @ 20,000IU/day from 30-120 days of lactation. Daily milk yield was recorded during experimental period. Blood samples were collected at fortnightly interval and was analysed for plasma vitamin D3, PTH, Osteocalcin and IgG levels. Milk production was significantly increased by vitamin D3 feeding in the treatment group (p<0.01) in comparison to control group. Milk yield increased by 1.99 kg/day in vitamin D3 supplemented buffaloes over control group. Plasma vitamin D3 level and Osteocalcin levels were higher in the treatment group of buffaloes (p< 0.01) in comparison to control group. However, plasma PTH levels decreased (p<0.01). Plasma IgG levels were higher (p<0.01) in treatment as compared to control group of buffaloes. Milk yield was positively correlated to circulatory vitamin D3 (p<0.01) and osteocalcin levels (p<0.05) and negatively correlated with PTH (p<0.01). It was concluded that vitamin D3 supplementation improves milk production and persistency of lactation due to increased vitamin D3 and Osteocalcin level in Murrah buffaloes. Supplementation also affects animal health by improving their immunity.
vitamin D3; hormones; Milk production; Immunity; Buffaloes