Effect of Transport on Physical and Haematological Status of Cattle in Bangladesh

A cross-sectional study was conducted during the period of July-December, 2014 to determine the effect of transportation associated physical stress of cattle used for beef purpose in Bangladesh. A total of 300 cattle were randomly selected, those were subjected to long distance transportation (648km, 14h). A pre-structured record sheet was used to record the injury related data, physical parameters and others relevant data both before and after transportation. The frequencies of injuries were increased significantly (P<0.01) after transportation (47%) than before (26%). The injuries were most common in Hariana cattle both before (5%) and after (8%) transport. Abrasion was dominated type of injury (11%) and were increased significantly (P<0.05) after transportation. The most frequent location of injuries was pin bone in both phase of the study. The frequencies of nasal discharge and degree of dehydrations were significantly (P<0.01) increased after transportation. Increased number of injuries and other physical status indicators during transportation indicates relatively higher degree of stress and suffering. Cattle trader should aware about the comfortless of animal during transportation for maximum productivity as well as to maintain animal welfare.