Effect of seasonal variations on the haematochemical profile of Cholistani service bulls.

This reported study is of Pakistan's indigenous Cholistani cattle breed, a native of the Cholistan desert where it has been reported as having high production potential for nomadic herders. The aim of the present study was to assess haematochemical profile of adult Cholistani service bulls (n = 16), being reared at the Semen Production Unit Karaniwala, Bahawalpur, Cholistan desert, Pakistan, during various seasons as an indicator of their health status. Keeping in view the prevailing climatic conditions of the study area, four seasons of three months duration each were defined as (i) cool dry winter (November, December, January) (ii) temperate spring (February, March, April) (iii) hot dry summer (May, June, July) and (iv) hot humid summer (August, September, October). Blood specimens were collected fortnightly during the study period for haematochemical analyses (automated). The present study revealed that Cholistani service bulls have a tendency to maintain most of their haematochemical parameters more or less at the same level during various seasons which is suggestive of their adaptability under stressful climates without showing any signs of stress. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]