Effect of Antioxidant supplementation on Some Hematological Parameters and Thermoregulatory Responses of Aberdeen Angus Cows During Hot Season in Arid Subtropical Regions

Abstract

This work aims to investigate the impact of some antioxidants, i.e., zinc sulfate (ZnS) administration, vitamin E and selenium (E-Sel) injection on hematological parameters and thermoregulatory responses of Aberdeen Angus cows. Sixteen cows were randomly divided into 4 equal groups (4 cows each), First group served as a control (G1); second group was received E-Sel injection at rate of 15 ml/ head / 15day) (G2); third group was fed on ZnS with an average rate of 200 mg/head/ daily (G3) and the fourth one was fed on ZnS in combination with E-Sel injection (G4). All experimental cows were fed 60% of their requirements as CFM and the rest of other requirements was covered from wheat strew ad libitum. In addition, the AT and RH% were recorded during the experimental days to calculate the current THI. Blood samples were collected during experimental period from jugular vein. Physiological parameter measurements were recorded during the experimental days. The obtained results showed that the average values of THI were between 69.04 and 85.46 during the experimental period. Treated cows with E-Sel recorded the highest values of hematological parameters in terms of WBC, RBC, HB, HCT and PLT compared with other groups. Using antioxidant agents had significant decrease in RR, PR, and HT. While, slightly decrease in RT, ST and ET was recorded of experimental animal. It is concluded that some antioxidants could improve hematological parameters and thermoregulatory responses of Aberdeen Angus cows under hot climatic conditions.

Keywords

• antioxidant
• hematological parameters
• thermoregulation
• aberdeen angus