J. Anim Sci.
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J. Anim Sci. 1962. 21:688-691.
© 1962 American Society of Animal Science
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Effect of Salt Water Dehydration on Temperature, Pulse and Respiration of Growing Cattle1

H. J. Weeth, J. E. Hunter and E. L. Piper2

University of Nevada, Reno

Abstract

The effects of salt water dehydration on temperature, pulse and respiration (TPR) of growing heifers were studied during fall, winter and summer. The experimental design was a single reversal using six heifers per season. TPR was taken morning and evening for 6 consecutive days during each period. Salt water dehydration was evidenced by rapid weight loss, increased hematocrit and increased plasma sodium concentration.

During winter dehydration lowered respiration and pulse rates. Morning rectal temperatures were lowered. The TPR of euhydrated heifers rose significantly from morning to afternoon, but that of dehydrated animals did not change. The consistently low respiration rates of dehydrated heifers (average 12 per minute) might be a water and heat conserving mechanism.

In summer dehydration lowered pulse and morning respiration rates. However, afternoon respiration rates during dehydration exceeded those of euhydration. Afternoon rectal and skin temperatures were elevated by dehydration. Both respiration rate and body temperature fluctuated more widely during dehydration. The weather during the fall study was only slightly cooler and dried than during the summer. The dehydration effects on TPR were similar.

Gradual rehydration of dehydrated heifers appeared to prevent the acute effects seen when dehydrated animals were suddenly given unlimited tap water.

Footnotes

1 Conducted in cooperation with Western Regional Research Project W-46, The Effects of Environmental Stresses on Range Cattle and Sheep Production.

2 Department of Animal Husbandry.






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Copyright © 1962 by the American Society of Animal Science.