Haematological and Serum Biochemical Responses of Yankasa Rams Supplemented Cinnamon Powder

Abstract

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of cinnamon supplements on Yankasa Rams' growth performance, nutrient digestibility, haematology and serum biochemical profile. A total number of sixteen (16) Yankasa grower rams with an average live weight of 20kg each was randomly allotted into four dietary treatments comprised of four replicates consisting of four animals per treatment in a completely randomized design (CRD), where data obtained in this study were analyzed using General Linear Model of Statistical Analysis Software and Means were separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. The haematological variables demonstrated that packed cell volume was significantly (P<0.05) affected by an increased level of cinnamon Significant (P<0.05) differences were also recorded in white blood cells, neutrophils, basophils and haemoglobin while others were not significantly (P>0.05) changed. With the exception of plasma potassium level, there were no significant (P>0.05) differences in all other serum biochemistry with the supplementation of cinnamon. Cinnamon supplementation plays a vital role in improving the haematological profile. No significant considerable changes were observed in the serum biochemical profile as a result of cinnamon supplements in Yankasa rams. It is therefore recommended that cinnamon powder can be incorporated into ruminant animal diet up to 15g/kg without detrimental effect in animal health status. However further studies were encouraged.