Authors: Iposu, S.O., Osunkeye, O.J, Sanwo, K.A, Adejobi, M. A., Akande, T.O., M. M. Baki
Journal of Applied Agricultural Research 2012, 4(1): 79 – 87
JSN 2006-750X © Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, 2012
ABSTRACT
The study was designed to determine common clinical signs, proportion of morbid animals,
and associations between socio-economic features of stock keepers, age and sex of animals, and
level of morbidity in sheep and goats in three local government areas (LGAs) of south-western
Nigeria. Fifty sheep and goat keepers were purposively selected in each of the three LGAs,
namely, Odeda, Abeokuta North, and Abeokllta South. Structured interview guide was
administered to elicit information on socio-economic characteristics of stock keepers,
information on herd management, age, sex and clinical signs of the animals. Clinical signs
observed and proportions of morbid animals were expressed in percentages. Chi square test
was used to establish associations between socio-economic characteristics of keepers, age and
sex of animals, and the level of morbidity in the herds. Clinical signs observed, in order of
incidence, were fever (rectal temperature >39.S°C), rough coat, anorexia, diarrhoea, nasal
discharge, alopecia, lameness, pale mucous membrane, bloody discharge, abscesses, foot rot,
and convulsion. Of the 369 sheep and 936 goats studied, 12% and 8% were morbid,
respectively, exhibiting one or a combination of the clinical signs. Significant relationship (P <
0.05) was observed between the age of goats and level of morbidity in Odeda LGA, with young
goats « 48 weeks of age) being more morbid than adults. Male keepers had lower morbidity (P
< 0.05) in their herd in Abeokuta South LGA. The results of this study revealed the incidence of
various endemic diseases in the study area, and the susceptibility of young goats to infection.
The clinical signs observed could be related to the incidence of Pestis des petit ruminant (PPR),
Enterotoxaemia, Sheep pox, Coccidiosis, Mange, Gastrointestinal, or External parasites. Male
keepers may be more efficient in the health management of their stock resulting in lower
morbidity in their herd.