Effects of Graded Levels of Vitamin E Supplementation on Hematology, Biochemical Parameters and Stress Resilience in Uda Rams

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of graded levels of vitamin E supplementation on hematological, serum biochemical, stress indicators, and oxidative stress biomarkers in Uda rams. Fifteen rams (18–23 kg) were randomly assigned to three treatments: control (no vitamin E), 40 g/kg (Vit.E1), and 60 g/kg (Vit.E2) dry matter supplementation, following a completely randomized design. Hematological analysis revealed significantly higher red blood cell (RBC) counts in Vit.E1 (12.533 ×10⁶/mm³) and Vit.E2 (13.230 ×10⁶/mm³) groups compared to control (8.667 ×10⁶/mm³; p < 0.05), with concurrent reductions in mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH), indicating smaller, more efficient erythrocytes. White blood cell (WBC) counts increased significantly in the Vit.E2 group (12.617 ×10³/mm³), suggesting enhanced immune competence. Serum biochemical analysis showed significant decreases in total cholesterol and increases in HDL levels in supplemented groups (p < 0.05), while liver enzymes and protein profiles remained unchanged, confirming the safety of supplementation. Stress indicators revealed reduced respiratory rates and rectal temperature at higher vitamin E levels, reflecting improved physiological adaptability. Oxidative stress biomarkers, including malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), decreased significantly in supplemented groups (p < 0.05), demonstrating enhanced antioxidant defense, while total antioxidant capacity (TAC) exhibited dose-dependent stabilization. Thyroxine (T4) levels decreased significantly with supplementation, indicating modulation of thyroid metabolism. Vitamin E supplementation, particularly at 60 g/kg DM, improved hematological parameters, lipid metabolism, oxidative stress resilience, and stress adaptability in Uda rams.