Effects of transport and altitude on hormones and oxidative stress parameters in sheep.

ABSTRACT

In study, it was aimed to determine the stress effects that can be caused by transporting and altitude in sheep. Karayaka sheeps were used in the study. Karayaka sheeps are a valuable breed of meat quality and fleece, which is raised in the Black Sea region. The live weight of the sheep (n = 30) while hungry was determined before transport and sea level. Average live weight was determined as 55.64 ± 4.66 kg. Blood samples were collected just before (sea level) and just after transport (1500 meters above sea level). Transportation distance was approximately 182 km and duration was 5 hours. According to the findings, cortisol was not affected by transport stress and altitude (P>0.05) and Triiyodotironin (T3) (P<0.039) and Tyrosine (T4) (P<0.000) were affected significantly. Malondialchehyche (MDA), which is one of the oxidative stress parameters, was significantly affected (P<0.039) and Protein Carbonyl (PC) values were not affected by transport and altitude (P>0.184). As a result of this study, it was determined that transportation and altitude in sheep causes stress. Stress-reducing measures should be taken in the exposure of sheep to altitude differences and in transportation. Antioxidant nutritional supplements should be made in order not to negatively affect the meat quality in sheep.