Influence of Peroral Supplementation of Selenium and Vitamin E on the Antioxidant Status of Racing Pigeons

Abstract

The racing season is considered a critical period for racing pigeons due to the susceptibility to stress and weakening of the birds. One of the ways how to support their health and avoid problems involves supplementation of mineral-vitamin preparations based on selenium and vitamin E, which act as important antioxidants and protect cells against damage. This study investigated the influence of peroral supplementation of selenium at a dose of 0.3 mg Se.kg−1 feed dry matter (DM) in the form of Na2SeO3 and vitamin E 300 mg.ml−1 added to water at a rate of 4 ml.l−1 during 60 days. The supplemented group comprised 14 pigeons and their results were compared with a control group of 14 pigeons fed non-supplemented commercial feed. Blood samples were collected and examined at the beginning of the supplementation period, one day before a 300 km race and after the race. Pigeons from the supplemented group exhibited increased plasma levels of Se and vitamin E, as well as the activity of glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) before and after the 300 km race in comparison with the controls. Comparison of the activity of the enzymes: alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (ASP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and creatinine kinase (CK) at the beginning of the supplementation and one day before the race showed no changes. A significant (P < 0.05) increase in the activity of all investigated enzymes were observed after the race in both groups.

Effect of Dietary Selenium Sources in Racing Pigeons and their Effect on Antioxidant Markers During Flying Effort

“…This involved the protection of antioxidants, which are able to deactivate the charged particle free radical, and discarded them rather than cause the next chain destruction. Among the most effective antioxidants but often deficient in compound feed can be included selenium compounds [1,4]. Se deficiency is a global problem related to an increased susceptibility to various diseases of animals and humans and decreased productive and reproductive performance of farm animals [12].…”

“…Shortened flying times at competitions and more races per season indicate the higher performance of these birds which is reflected in their health and short periods of regeneration. The increasing stress is associated with weakened immunity, higher susceptibility to diseases and the absence of their expected performance [1]. One way how to prevent these problems is to provide them with vitamin-minerals supplements which have a strong antioxidant function.…”