Feed Intake, Growth Mate and Physiological Responses During Spring and Hot Dry Season in Karae Fries Males

In order to investigate the impact of rise in ambient temperature on feed intake, growth rate and physiological responses during spring and summer season, five Karan Fries males (1.0–1.5 years age) were selected. The animals were provided ad libitum feed and water. The feed intake of growing calves decreased from 3.81 to 2.81 kg/100 kg BW with the increase in the temperature humidity index (THI). Blood hemoglobin and PCV content were significantly lower (P<0.05) during hot summer than spring season. Physiological parameters viz. respiration rate (R²=0.25), heart rate (R3=0.34),) and rectal temperature (R²=0.51) were found to be positively correlated with THI. The study indicates a negative impact of higher THI on the feed intake, growth rate and on physiological responses thereby indicating that Karan Fries animals require protection from rising temperature and humidity.