Influence of summer stress on some haematological, immunological and endocrine parameters of rabbits

Six adult rabbits (3 each of either sex) were reared for a period of 5 months from March to July in hot-dry to hot-humid conditions and influence on some hematological, immunological and endocrine parameters was studied. Thermal-Humidity Index (THI) was below 80 in March (hot dry) which increased to 96 during July (hot humid). In hot and humid climate, a significant rise was recorded in hemoglobin concentration, heterophil: lymphocyte (H: L) ratio while antibody titer decreased. There was no change in progesterone level in male animals, but concentration increased in females during hot-humid environment. Hot and humid climate characteristically increased few hematological responses, progesterone concentration whereas antibody response was decreased.