INFLUENCE OF INTERMITTENT WATERING ON SOME BLOOD COMPONENTS OF GRAZING YANKASA SHEEP

Abstract

Blood picture, some serum biochemical and electrolyte measurements were determined in grazing Yankasa sheep that were subjected to various lengths of water deprivation. The study was carried out both in the dry and wet seasons to examine seasonal variations. Blood constituents namely packed cell volume (PCV), total proteins, and red blood count (RBC), hemoglobin (HB), were significantly (P < 0.05) higher during wet season than dry' season. Watering intervals significantly affected (P < 0.05) the RBC and Hb components of blood. The blood components values were elevated with increases in watering intervals. Seasonal variations were observed in serum electrolyte values measured and water deprivation caused hemoconcentration especially in the dry season.