Physiological Effect of Gentle Stroking in Lambs

Area of Science:

• Animal Physiology
• Animal Behavior
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Understanding the physiological impact of human-animal interaction is crucial for animal welfare.
• Lambs, as sensitive livestock, may exhibit measurable physiological changes in response to tactile stimulation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the physiological and biochemical alterations in lambs following gentle stroking.
• To assess the stress response and potential adaptive mechanisms induced by tactile interaction in young sheep.

Main Methods:

• Inclusion of 40 three-week-old lambs (BCP and SW breeds) divided into control and experimental groups.
• Measurement of physiological parameters including heart rate (HR) and saturation (S).
• Biochemical analysis of blood samples to assess various biomarkers (cortisol, enzymes, proteins, electrolytes, etc.).

Main Results:

• Significant increases observed in cortisol, CAT, GST, and GPx levels in stroked lambs.
• Significant decreases noted in total protein, SOD, TAC, uric acid, and Na+ levels.
• Indicators of reduced stress, such as increased glycogen and decreased glucose and HR, were also observed.

Conclusions:

• Gentle touch can induce complex physiological changes in lambs, including both stress responses and signs of reduced stress.
• The stress response to tactile interaction may be transient and adaptive, highlighting the nuanced nature of animal responses to handling.
• Behavioral observation alone may not fully capture the physiological stress experienced by lambs during human interaction.