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Remote controlled sampling of cattle and buffalo blood
J Hattingh1, M F Ganhao, F J Kruger
1Department of General Physiology, School of Dentistry, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa.
Summary
This study reveals that stress significantly impacts cattle and buffalo plasma composition. Remote sampling shows stable physiological variables in resting animals, unaffected by diurnal rhythms.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Physiology
- Animal Science
- Comparative Physiology
Background:
- Understanding physiological variables in livestock is crucial for animal welfare and productivity.
- Diurnal rhythms and stress responses can influence blood parameters in cattle and buffaloes.
- Accurate baseline data is needed to interpret physiological changes in free-ranging animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate plasma composition changes in cattle and buffaloes under different conditions.
- To determine the influence of handling and stress on physiological variables.
- To establish baseline plasma profiles in non-stressed, free-ranging animals.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from cattle and buffaloes at 4-hourly intervals over extended periods.
- Remote-controlled methods were employed to minimize animal disturbance.
- Animals were subjected to initial handling and deliberate stress at experimental endpoints.
Main Results:
- Plasma concentrations of several variables increased following initial handling and deliberate stress.
- Between handling and stress, investigated variables showed minimal fluctuation and no discernible rhythms.
- Data suggests that remote sampling accurately reflects resting plasma composition.
Conclusions:
- Deliberate stress and handling significantly alter plasma composition in cattle and buffaloes.
- Remote sampling techniques provide reliable baseline physiological data for free-ranging livestock.
- The study highlights the importance of accounting for stress in physiological assessments of cattle and buffaloes.