Retrospective study on pattern of equine cases presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH), University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria from 1999 to 2020

Abstract

Having proper knowledge of the pattern of diseases vis-à-vis the data of equine cases presented to the clinic over a period of time cannot be overemphasised for appropriate prevention and control of equine diseases in Nigeria. This study aimed to establish the occurrence of equine cases presented to the Large Animal Clinic of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria (January 1999 – December 2020). A total of 102 equine cases, comprising horses (78) and donkeys (24), were retrieved from the clinical case files of equine species presented to the clinic. The sex distribution of horses and donkeys showed a higher percentage of males compared to female. Cases in local breeds of horses were higher (82.05%), compared to exotic breeds (17.95%), while all (100%) donkey cases were recorded in the local breed. Adult animals’ cases were higher compared to young animals, with 87.18% and 58.33% compared to 12.82% and 29.17% in horses and donkeys, respectively. More cases were presented during the wet season, with 74.36% and 70.83% in horses and donkeys, respectively. Higher cases involving the cardiovascular system were presented in equids (52.51%). Among infectious conditions, parasitic cases were highest (92.6%), while transportation stress (23.8%) and colic (14.3%) were the highest cases in equids among non- infectious conditions. The study observed a diverse pattern of diseases in equids that affect several body systems in Nigeria. We therefore recommend regular training of owners of horses and donkeys as well as equine veterinarians on appropriate prevention, control, and possible management of diseases.