Research Article
Joseph Olusegun Ayo, Samail
Abstract
The experiment was performed with the aim of determining fluctuations in cloacal temperature (CT) of Black Harco pullets, and effects of betamint® on the fluctuations and some performance indicesof the pullets during the hot-dry season. Twenty-five experimental pullets were each administered with betamint orally at a dose of 1 ml/kg daily, while 25 other control pullets were given only water for 21 days. The dry-bulb temperature, relative humidity inside the pen and CT of each pullet were recorded every two hours (from 06:00 h to 18:00 h) on days 7, 14 and 21. CT values in experimental and control pullets (41.63 ± 0.10°C and 41.64 ± 0.13°C, respectively) did not differ, but betamint reduced (P<0.05) CT values in the pullets from 12:00 h and 14:00 h. Water consumption in experimental (4.26%) pullets was lower than that of the control (23.63%) pullets. An increase in live weight gain (15%) and feed consumption (45.91%) was obtained in experimental pullets over that of the control pullets (P < 0.01). In conclusion, betamint administration alleviated the risk of adverse effects of heat stress and improved live weight gain in pullets.