Figure 1.
Summary of the calcium propionate applications in dairy cows. The effects of supplementation with calcium propionate in dairy cows can be divided into the functions of hydrolyzed Ca2+ and propionic acid. Ca2+, as a water-soluble calcium source, can reduce the incidence of milk fever by increasing the calcium content in the blood of perinatal dairy cows. Propionic acid is mainly used to inhibit the growth of mildew in silage or total mixed rations (TMR) or as a glucose precursor to inhibit a negative energy balance (NEB). Propionate can also promote the development of the rumen epithelium of calves. However, at very high doses, calcium propionate may lead to a decrease in appetite.