Body mass loss and body fluid shifts during dehydration in Dorper sheep

Abstract

SUMMARYDorper sheep are raised in extreme desert areas. Body mass loss and body fluid shifts were measured in Dorper rams denied water for 4 days and offered only wheat straw. The rams lost 16·3% body mass, 22·0% total body water volume, 35·1 % extracellular fluid volume and 41·7% plasma volume. On first drinking following dehydration, Dorpers were able to consume 19·7% of their dehydrated body mass and 100·3 % of their body mass loss. It was concluded that Dorpers can survive in harsh deserts through their ability to withstand dehydration and quickly replenish body mass losses when water becomes available.