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Published online by Cambridge University Press: 23 November 2017
Neonatal diarrhoeas are a major problem in bovine husbandry. Antibiotics are usually utilized as medicine but a prevention based on natural methods could be of interest. Lactoferrin (Lf) is a glycoprotein naturally found in milk. It is known for its many useful properties for animal health, in particular for its immunomodulator, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. The lactoperoxidase system (LpS), an enzymatic system, also present in milk, possesses effective antimicrobial properties. It is composed of lactoperoxidase (Lp), thiocyanate and H2O2. A synergy between Lf and LpS has been reported. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of Lf and of the association Lf-LpS as oral supplements to newborn dairy calves in order to improve health and production parameters.