Impact of using magnetized water and time-restricted feeding on hematological cellular parameters in Japanese quail (Coturnix Japonica)

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of magnetized water, time-restricted feeding, and their interaction on hematological traits of Japanese quail. A total of 312 chicks were randomly assigned to four treatments (78 birds each): T1 (natural water with ad libitum feeding), T2 (natural water with 5 h feed restriction), T3 (magnetized water with ad libitum feeding), and T4 (magnetized water with 5 h feed restriction).

The results showed significant increases (P≤0.05) in red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit, and a decrease in white blood cell count and H/L ratio in males and females consuming magnetized water compared with normal water. Feed restriction had no significant effect in the blood parameters of males, whereas females showed reduced red blood cells and hemoglobin without changes in hematocrit.

Interaction results showed that T3 and T4 had higher red blood cell count, hemoglobin concentration, and hematocrit, and lower white blood cell count and H/L ratio than T1 and T2. All hematological values ​​remained within or very close to normal physiological ranges, magnetized water improved physiological status in Japanese quail.