Clinical, Hemato-Biochemical and Oxidative Stress Biomarkers Alterations in Dairy Heifers with Tongue-Rolling

The current study aimed to determine the alterations in clinical, hemato-biochemical and oxidative stress biomarkers in dairy heifers performing tongue-rolling disorder. Seventeen stereotypic (Tongue rolling group) and 12 healthy (control group) Holstein-Frisian heifers aged 12–22 months were selected. Blood and serum samples were gathered from all animals for determination of hematological, biochemical as well as oxidative stress parameters. Tongue-rolling animals showed the characteristic stereotypic actions of tongue-playing that were never seen in controls. Rectal temperature, respiratory rate, heart rate and rumen contractions were similar in tongue-rolling and control groups. Anemia was found in tongue-rolling affected animals. Moreover, total leucocytic count and neutrophilic percentage were significantly (P˂0.001) decreased in affected animals. Blood serum levels of glucose, triglycerides, albumin, urea, creatinine as well as AST and ALT showed non-significant (P>0.05) change between both studied groups. Cholesterol, HDL-C, total protein and globulin levels were significantly decreased (P˂0.05) in affected heifers. Blood serum minerals and electrolytes showed non-significant (P>0.05) difference in the levels of phosphorus, Mg, Zn, iron, Copper, Na and K between both groups. Calcium levels were significantly decreased (P˂0.05) in affected group. SOD activities were significantly (P˂0.05) reduced in tongue-rolling group while, a non-significant (P>0.05) increased activities of MDA were recorded in the same group. The results indicated that tongue-rolling affected animals experienced anemia, reduced energy and oxidative stress. Those factors could be implicated in the pathophysiology of tongue-rolling problem in dairy animals.