The Short-Chain Fatty Acids of the Peripheral Blood of Goats

Summary Measureable amounts of acetic, propionic and butyric acids were identified in the peripheral blood of goats. Small amounts of other volatile acids also were present. There were 2.7 to 3.8mg. of total volatile acids per 100ml. in the blood of the young goats and 4.2 to 6.1mg. per 100ml. in the blood of the adult animals. About 75 per cent (molar basis) of the adult levels of volatile acids was acetic acid. Concurrent with the development of the rumen, the glucose level of the blood decreased, while the short-chain fatty acid level increased.