Thermoregulation and Haematological Responses to Induced Acute Haemorrhage in Adult Nubian Goats

Background and Objectives: Acute haemorrhage is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in surgery and trauma due to ischaemic lesions followed by multiple organ dysfunction. After haemorrhage, compensatory redistribution of blood volume may occur to more vital and survival organs. The objective of the study was evaluation of thermoregulation and haematological responses to acute haemorrhage in Nubian goats.

Materials and Methods: The study used 6 female mature goats, weighing 18.0 kg on average. The goats were subjected to 40% bleeding. The rectal temperature (Tr), respiration rate (RR) and heart rate (HR) were monitored before bleeding and then immediately after bleeding and at 1,2,3,4,5,6,24 hrs post-bleeding. Venous blood samples were collected before and then immediately after bleeding and at 6, 24, 48, 72 hrs post-bleeding. The haemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), total leukocyte count(TLC), differential leukocyte count (DLC), serum total protein, albumin, and concentrations of sodium (Na) were determined.

Results: The post-bleeding values of Tr, RR and HR were significantly higher compared to the pre-bleeding values. The post-bleeding values of PCV, Hb concentration, erythrocyte count and TLC were lower compared to prebleeding values. The ratios of lymphocytes, monocytes and eosinophils decreased, whereas the neutrophil ratio increased post-bleeding. The values of serum total protein, albumin and serum Na concentrations decreased post-bleeding.

Conclusion: The studies indicate that the goat can be adopted as a valid research model in investigations of experimental haemorrhage. The findings have implications in the fields of veterinary haematology and surgery and comparative medicine.