To determine the haematological profile during the transition period of Murrah buffaloes in eastern Rajasthan

The transition period, encompassing the final weeks of pregnancy through early lactation, represents a physiologically demanding phase for dairy buffaloes and is often associated with metabolic stress, immune modulation and increased susceptibility to disease. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the haematological alterations occurring during the transition period in Murrah buffaloes maintained under field conditions in eastern Rajasthan, with the objective of establishing physiological trends that may serve as indicators of health and adaptive capacity during this critical phase. A total of fifteen apparently healthy, advanced pregnant Murrah buffaloes were selected from local farms in the Bharatpur district. Blood samples were collected at four distinct stages of the transition period, namely the third week pre-partum, one week before parturition, 24 hours post-partum and the third week post-partum. Whole blood samples were analyzed for comprehensive haematological parameters using an automated haematology analyzer. The parameters studied included total leucocyte count (TLC), total erythrocyte count (TEC), platelet count, differential leucocyte count (lymphocytes, monocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils), haemoglobin concentration (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), mean corpuscular volume (MCV), mean corpuscular haemoglobin (MCH) and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration (MCHC). The data were subjected to standard statistical analysis, including analysis of variance and comparison of means using Duncan’s multiple range test. The results revealed that most haematological parameters remained within established physiological reference ranges throughout the transition period, however, significant stage-specific variations were evident. Total leucocyte count and neutrophil percentage showed an increasing trend around parturition, with peak values observed 24 hours post-partum, indicating a stress-related leukocytic response and enhanced innate immune activity. Conversely, lymphocyte percentage declined at calving, reflecting transient immunosuppression associated with cortisol surge and periparturient stress. Total erythrocyte count, haemoglobin concentration and PCV were significantly higher immediately after calving, suggesting increased oxygen demand, hemoconcentration and endocrine adjustments during the onset of lactation. Platelet counts and most erythrocyte indices exhibited non-significant variations, indicating relative haematological stability despite the physiological strain of parturition.