Physiological parameters in lambs (1/2 and 3/4 Dorper) from birth until 90 days old

Abstract

It was aimed to verify the physiological parameters in crossbreed lambs (1/2 and 3/4 Dorper) from birth until 90 days old. Forty-five healthy offspring of pluriparous sheep were monitored. Lambs were followed from birth until weaning at 90 days. Clinical evaluations were recorded 24-72h after birth and at 7; 15; 30; 60 and 90 days of age (when weaning was performed). There was no difference in rectal temperature variation. It was observed a significant decline in the cardiac frequency from birth until 60 days. There was a significant decrease in respiratory frequency until 30 days, when this parameter was stabilized. Ruminal frequency was evaluated from 30 until 90 days old and there was an increase in this parameter until 60 days. Parameters demonstrated greater average values for cardiac and respiratory frequencies. However, the superiority of these values must be justified by the likely adaptation of Dorper crossbred animals to the climatic conditions to keep the homeothermy.