Normal Physiological Parameters and Hematological Values in Water Buffalos (Bubalus bubalis) from the Colombian Middle Magdalena

Abstract

This study was conducted with 171 animals from La Suiza Farm, located in the Municipality of Puerto Nare, Antioquia, in order to determine the physiological parameters and hematological values in water buffalos (Bubalus bubalis) from the Colombian Middle Magdalena. This population was selected and classified into different age groups as follows: under one year of age, 51 animals; one to three years of age: 56 animals, and over three years of age: 64 animals. Heart rate, breathing rate, pulse, capillary refill time, temperature and rumian movements were taken from the same animals once a month for 4 months. Likewise, blood was extracted from the jugular vein for hematologic analysis of hematocrit, total plasma protein, total serum protein and leukocyte count. Results: reference ranges of physiological and hematological parameters were found in water buffalos from La Suiza Farm in the Colombian Middle Magdalena.