Assessments of welfare of Marathwadi buffalo calves under different housing systems

The study was conducted at the Livestock Farm Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Udgir, Maharashtra, to evaluate the effect of different housing systems on the welfare of Marathwadi buffalo calves. Sixteen three month old calves were randomly divided into two groups of eight each: barn housing (T1) and loose housing (T2), and were observed for 15 weeks. Parameters including body weight, feed and water intake, physiological responses, behavioral patterns, and blood profiles were recorded. Average weekly weight gain, feed intake, and water intake were slightly higher in T2, with water intake showing a significant difference (p<0.05). Heart rate and pulse rate were significantly lower in T2, indicating reduced stress, while rectal temperature showed no significant difference. Calves in T2 exhibited longer rumination time, higher social interaction, and lower serum cortisol levels (p<0.05), suggesting improved welfare compared to T1. No significant differences were noted for hemoglobin and packed cell volume. Overall, the study concluded that the loose housing system provided better behavioral expression, physiological comfort, and lower stress indicators, making it a more favorable housing system for Marathwadi buffalo calves.