Prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of sheep and goats slaughtered in Minna Modern Abattoir, Niger State, Nigeria

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. However, parasitism presents a major constraint limiting livestock production in most developing countries. Therefore, this study is aimed at determining the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites of commercial sheep and goats in Minna Abattoir, Niger Sate, Nigeria. A total of one hundred and sixty-eight (168) faecal samples were collected and analyzed for the presence of gastrointestinal parasites using saturated sodium chloride floatation techniques. An overall prevalence rate of 117 (69.64%) was recorded. Among the selected ruminants used, a prevalence rate of 48 (63.16%) and 69 (75.0%) was obtained for sheep and goats respectively. Seven (7) gastrointestinal parasites were detected; these were Strongyloides spp, Trichuris spp, Haemonchus spp., Eimeria spp., Taenia spp., Moniezia spp. and Fasciola spp. Among the parasite detected, Haemonchus spp. had the highest rate of infection 30 (25.6%) followed by Strongyloides spp. 23 (19.65%) while the least prevalence rate was recorded in Moniezia spp. 8 (6.8%). Overall, male ruminants were also more infected (Sheep: 64.44% and goats:77.78% than their females counterparts (sheep: 61.29% and goats: 71.05%). The older ruminants were more infected (sheep: 69.49% and goats: 73.91%). Chi–square analysis showed that there was no significant difference (p>0.05) on the infection rate in relation to gender and age. The results of this study suggest high prevalence of gastrointestinal parasitic infection among ruminants; therefore, effective control measures should be put in place to combat the despicable effects of gastrointestinal parasites on ruminants.