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Abstract

In this study, the effect of fermentative disorders such as acid and alkaline indigestion was investigated in buffaloes. Six buffaloes each suffering from acid and alkaline indigestion was chosen and various physiological parameters were compared with six healthy buffaloes Clinical examination was carried out to rule out infectious diseases and abomasal displacement. Rumen fluid was evaluated for pH, protozoal motility, iodophilic activity, sedimentation activity time (SAT), methylene blue reduction time (MBRT), total protozoa, gas production, ammonia, total volatile fatty acids (TVFA). Haematological parameters such as haemoglobin, packed cell volume (PCV), erythrocyte, leucocyte and differential counts were performed. In serum, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, glucose, urea, protein were estimated. The data was analysed using one way ANOVA and Kruskalwallis test. A significant (P<0.05) increase in pulse and respiratory rates and significant decrease in rumen motility was observed in both acidosis and alkalosis. Rumen pH decreased significantly (P<0.05) in acidosis and increased in alkalosis. In rumen liquor, SAT and MBRT were significantly (P<0.05) increased. The protozoal count, motility and iodophilic activities and gas production were significantly (P<0.05) reduced. However, rumen ammonia was only increased in alkalosis and TVFA in acidosis. Increased PCV was seen in both acidosis and alkalosis. Sero-biochemical analysis revealed as significant (P<0.05) decrease in calcium, phosphorus and protein content in alkalosis whereas glucose and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) were significantly (P<0.05) increased in both acidosis and alkalosis.