Quality of donkey mammary secretion during the first ten days of lactation

The physico-chemical characteristics and somatic cell count of donkey mammary secretion during the first ten days after foaling were analysed. During this period, a decreasing trend was observed for protein, dry matter and ash levels. The lowest values for lactose and pH were detected in the first hours (4.01 g 100 mL−1 of milk and 6.69 pH units), while the fat showed a peak (3.42 g 100 mL−1 of milk) at 6 h. The highest urea level was at 6 and 12 h (56.18 and 51.55 mg dL−1). Mineral levels changed during the experimental period, except for calcium, zinc and iron. Mean diameter of the fat globules and classes of fatty acids did not show significant differences; however, the n6/n3 ratio was influenced by day of lactation. In conclusion, the colostrum phase in donkeys lasts about 12–24 h, after which the secretion can be considered as transitional milk.