Alterations in Hematological and Serum Biochemical Parameters of Sahel Goats with Clinical Mastitis

Abstract

Mastitis is a widespread disease of the dairy goats associated with alterations in the physical, chemical, pathological and bacteriological quality of milk and glandular tissues. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of clinical mastitis on hematological and serum biochemical parameters of Sahel Goats in Nigeria. Twenty six Sahel goats with clinical mastitis and ten normal goats taken as the control group were used for the study. Blood samples were collected via the jugular vein for hematological and biochemical analysis. A significant increase (p<0.05) in neutrophil count and a significant decrease (p<0.05) in lymphocyte and eosinophil counts were observed in the goats with clinical mastitis. However, changes observed in the total red blood cell count, packed cell volume and hemoglobin concentrations were within the normal reference values. Serum levels of Na + , Cl - and HCO3 -- were significantly lower (p<0.05) in Sahel goats with clinical mastitis compared to the control group. There were no significant differences in total protein, albumin, globulin and serum K + concentrations in the Sahel goats with clinical mastitis compared to the control group. The alterations observed in the hematological and biochemical parameters in the Sahel goats with clinical mastitis could be due to altered quality of milk as a result of the physical, pathological, bacteriological and glandular changes.