Effect of weaning as a stress factor on the blood acute phase protein level in newly weaned buffaloe calves

Abstract EN

Weaning is one of the most widely recognized stressors in animal production.

This study aimed to determine the effect of weaning as a stressor on some acute – phase proteins (Haptoglobin, Fibrinogen and ceruloplasmin) response in newly weaned buffaloe calves.

Ten newly weaned buffaloe calves of two moths of age, were used in this study.

The animals belonged to a private farm in Sharkia Governorate.

Blood samples were collected before weaning and 3 & 5 days postweaning for haematological examination and determination of the levels of plasma ceruloplasmin, fibrinogen & cortisol and serum total proteins, albumin and haptoglobin.

The obtained results revealed an alteration in the neutrophill : lymphocyte ratio, significant increase in Hp, Fb, CRP and cortisol levels, in postweaning blood samples.

Moreover a decrease in serum total protein & albumin, postweaning, was observed.

From this study, it can be concluded that, stressors associated with weaning affect the acute phase- protein response in newly weaned calves.