Infection of gastrointestinal parasites among slaughtered cattle (Bos taurus) in Modern Abattoir, Minna, Niger State

Abstract

Livestock and their products are the major source of animal protein. They also play a crucial role in the economy of most nations including Nigeria. In Nigeria, animals are mostly managed by extensive system and this predisposes them to gastrointestinal parasites. This study is aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of cattle slaughtered in Minna Abattoir. A total of two hundred and seventeen (217) faecal samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites using saturated sodium chloride flotation and sedimentation techniques. An overall prevalence rate of 169 (77.88%) of gastrointestinal parasites were recorded. Among the selected cattle breeds sampled, a prevalence rate of 114 (67.45%) for white Fulani, 30 (17.75%) for Sokoto Gudali and 25 (14.79%) for red Bororo were obtained. Seven (7) gastrointestinal parasites detected were Strongyloides spp, Trichuris spp, Haemonchus spp, Eimeria spp, Taenia spp, Moniezia spp and Fasciola spp. Haemonchus spp had the highest rate of infection 69 (40.82%) followed by Strongyloides spp 22 (13.04%) while the one with the least prevalence was Eimeria spp á12 (7.10%). It was observed that female ruminants were more infected (53.84%) than their male counterpart (46.15%). The older also had higher infection rate (50.29%) than the younger ones (49.72%). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) on the infection rate in relation to gender and age. It is paramount to use appropriate management systems and rational use of drugs to solve this health problem.