Abstract

An epidemiological survey of genital prolapse in buffaloes kept under different feeding and production systems was conducted. The serum micromineral contents in these animals were also investigated. Data on 343 buffaloes were recorded for epidemiological studies, including 297 normal pregnant and 46 prolapsed cases. Blood samples were collected from 40 buffaloes (20 pregnant and 20 suffering from genital prolapse) and analysed for Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn contents. The occurrence of genital prolapse differed insignificantly between animals kept under 2 feeding systems (stall feeding and semi-stall feeding), 3 floor conditions (uneven floor, kacha/brick floor, sloppy floor) and 2 production systems (rural subsistence small holding and market-oriented small holding). Its occurrence was higher during the summer seasons. The mean values of serum Cu and Zn were lower in prolapsed buffaloes compared to controls (P<0.01). However, no difference in serum Fe and Mn concentrations was observed between the 2 groups. Parity had no effect on serum concentrations of the microminerals. However, serum Zn level was higher in buffaloes suffering from vaginal prolapse compared to those suffering from uterine prolapse (P<0.05).