A study of hematologic and biochemical profile in female dromedary camels during the breeding and non-breeding seasons

Abstract

Dromedary camel is a seasonal breeder, with the maximum breeding activity during winter and spring and minimum activity occurring in summer and autumn in female camels of southwest Iran. This study was performed to investigate hematological and serum biochemical changes during breeding and non-breeding seasons in female camels, raised in Khouzestan Province. Blood samples were collected from 32 apparently healthy female dromedary camels during December to March as breeding period and from June to October as non-breeding period. Complete blood counts and serum biochemical parameters were analyzed. The results revealed a significant rise in erythrocyte markers including RBC, Hb, HCT, and MCHC in peak breeding season. Serum creatinine concentration in the breeding season was significantly higher than the non-breeding one. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels were both significantly increased in camels sampled during their maximum breeding time. There was also a significant elevation in protein concentration in the mentioned group (P < 0.05). Phosphorus and magnesium levels, in contrast to calcium, were higher in the breeding period (P < 0.05). The activity of serum enzymes comprising LDH, GGT, and ALT was significantly increased in the breeding season (P < 0.05). In spite of that, total bilirubin concentration declined in the same period. It can be concluded that reproductive status can make a considerable alteration in hematologic and biochemical profile in female dromedary camel which must be considered when interpreting laboratory data obtained from this species.