Effect of physiological state on haemato–biochemical profile of djallonke sheep in Asante Mampong

Abstract

A three-month study was conducted to determine the effect of physiological state on the haemato-biochemical profiles of Djallonke sheep in Mampong Ashanti. A cross-sectional study was employed. A total of 24 Djallonke ewes of different physiological states categorized into age, parity, body condition score (BCS), and pregnancy stages (first trimester, second trimester, and third trimester) were used for haemato-biochemical for the study. Haematological indices were determined by five (5) parts (differentials) fully automated haematological system whereas serum biochemical profiles were analyzed using Mindray BS 130 fully automated blood chemistry analyzer. The haematology assessment indicated that erythrocyte indices were influenced (P<0.05) by age, BCS, parity and pregnancy stages. The differences did not show sequential variations with age, BCS, parity and stages of pregnancy. Leucocyte indices were affected by age, BCS, parity and pregnancy stages. Sheep at 4 years had the highest white blood cell followed by 6 months, 6 years, 2 years and 3 years in descending order. Six years ewes had the highest (P<0.05) heterophils followed by 6 months, 4 years 3 years and 2 years in descending order. Sheep of BCS 3.2 had the highest haematocrit followed by 2.8, 3.0, 3.5, 2.0 and 4.0 in descending order. The WBC and heterophils were higher in the first trimester of gestation compared to the second and third trimesters. Serum biochemistry was affected (P<0.05) by the fixed factors such that sheep of 4 years had the highest total protein concentration followed by 6 months old, 2, 3 and 6 years in descending order. Sheep of BCS 4.0 had the highest (P<0.05) glucose concentration followed by BCS 3.0, 2.5, 3.5, and 2.0 in descending order. The differences in serum biochemical indices did not follow a sequential pattern with age, BCS, parity and stages of pregnancy. Body condition score had a slight (P>0.05) influence on total cholesterol and triglycerol concentrations. It is recommended that Physiological states (age, BCS, parity. And pregnancy stages) of Djallonke sheep have an immense effect on the haemato-biochemical indices of Djallonke sheep and hence, these factors should be considered when assessing the performance of the animals.