Infrared thermography to assess thermoregulatory reactions of buffaloes supplemented with antioxidant and dense energy source in summer season

Twenty-four lactating buffaloes were chosen and subsequently divided into 4 groups i.e. group-I (control), group-II (supplemented astaxanthin at 0.25 mg kg-1 BW/day), group-III (prill fat at 100 g day-1), and group-IV (combination). Surface body temperature at different anatomical regions of buffaloes was recorded using infrared thermography (IRT), rectal temperature using a digital thermometer, and cortisol hormone by ELISA kit at the fortnightly interval. Forehead region temperature showed a higher correlation (0.390) with THI compared to other anatomical regions. The change in surface body temperature was positively correlated with THI and cortisol levels. The increase in the IRT temperature at different anatomical sites of buffaloes was at a lower magnitude in treatment groups compared to the control group. Udder surface temperature was higher in peak lactation and high producing buffaloes. Forehead region temperature showed a close relationship with rectal temperature and cortisol levels of buffaloes. According to the research findings, astaxanthin and prill fat can be used in ameliorating heat stress. Infrared thermography (non-invasive method) of the forehead and udder can be used as indicators for measuring the heat stress and production levels of buffaloes, respectively.