Intraruminal fluid administration to goats: effects of handling and fluid temperature

Physiological stress response to intraruminal fluid administration was studied in 5 female goats. The fluid was given through a stomach tube. The water was cold (10 degrees C) or warm (38 degrees C) and in an amount of 7.5-10% of body weight. Plasma concentrations of adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol increased significantly after both treatments. Adrenaline and noradrenaline responses were greater and more longlasting after cold water administration, but there was no difference in cortisol response between cold and warm water. Haematocrit and plasma protein concentrations increased also and the effects of cold water lasted longer. Blood pressure showed a sharp rise of short duration and was independent of water temperature. The immediate tachycardiac response was similar with both treatments, but cold water caused an additional peak 15 min later. The cooling did not increase plasma histamine level. The results suggest that stomach intubation and administration of water into the rumen leads to strong activation of hormonal and cardiovascular stress parameters even in goats well adapted to handling. Low temperature of the fluid further heightens the effect. Warming of fluids to near body temperature before their administration is thus recommended.