Monitoring of some metabolic parameters in Comisana lambs during the neonatal period

Introduction - The neonatal period represents a critical stage in development of physiological functions. During this phase morphological, physiological and behavioral changes take place in newborn animals to permit a successful adaptation to the extra-uterine environment. Moreover, newborn lambs have limited energy reserves and need a rapid access to colostrum to maintain homeothermy and survive. In addition to energy, colostrum provides proteins, including immunoglobulins, which ensure passive systemic immunity. Therefore, getting early access to the udder is essential for the neonate. Aim - The purpose of this study was to monitor rectal temperature and the course of some metabolic parameters (serum total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine and urea) of ten newborn lambs (Comisana breed) during the first 30 days of life in order to obtain useful information for neonatal care. Material and methods - For each animal rectal temperature was recorded using a digital thermometer (HI92704, Hanna Instruments Bedfordshire, UK) with the probe being inserted to a depth of 9 cm. From all animals blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture at the same hour (9:00) every 3 days for 30 days starting from birth. By means of an UV Spectrophotometer, the serum concentration of total proteins, albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine and urea were determined. One-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by Bonferroni’s Test, was used to determine statistically significant differences. Results and discussion - Data analysis of variance showed a statistical effect of days of life on total proteins (P<0.0003), albumin, total cholesterol, triglycerides (P<0.0001) and urea (P=0.0002), during the first 30 days of life, while no statistical significant effect of days of life on creatinine (P=0.09) and rectal temperature (P=0.06) is showed during the experimental period. Conclusion - The results obtained in this study make a contribution to the knowledge of physiological and metabolic modification in lambs during the first 30 days of life and give useful information for the diagnosis and treatment of neonatal diseases.