Physiological and Performance Parameters of Changthangi Sheep in Response to Cold and Nutritional Stress

Abstract Physiological and performance parameters of 33 pregnant Changthangi sheep divided into three groups (G1, G2 and G3) of 11each on the basis of body weight, age and parity was undertaken during winter months. Ewes of G1 and G2 were kept inside the closed shed all the time whereas the ewes of G3 were kept in an open area which was chain-link fenced from four sides and was provided with a roof shelter to protect from direct rain or snow. G1 and G3 were fed 400g concentrate and 600g fodder per head per day as per ICAR feeding standard. Ewes of G2 were given concentrate @ 500g and fodder @ 1000g per head per day. Environmental parameters (temperature, relative humidity and wind velocity) were recorded on a daily basis in animal houses and wind chill index was calculated using these parameters. Physiological parameters (rectal temperature, pulse rate and respiration rate) were recorded weekly in the morning. Fortnightly weight of ewes and monthly weight of lambs was recorded upto weaning. Extreme Wind Chill Index was observed throughout the study period in open house. Pulse rate of supplemented ewes with closed housing was significantly (p<0.05) higher than G1 and G3 ewes while respiration rate and rectal temperature were significantly (p<0.05) higher in group reared in open house. Significantly (p<0.05) higher body weight of ewes, birth weight and weaning weight of lambs was obtained in the supplemented group G2 than G1 and G3 ewes. Economic appraisal revealed a net gain of Rs. 3672.15 in the group reared in a closed shed and supplemented with extra feed and a loss of Rs. 593 in the group reared in open housing system than ewes reared in a closed shed without supplementation.