Haematological profiles of pigs raised under intensive management system in South-Eastern Nigeria

Abstract

The haematological profile of pigs raised under intensive management system in South-Eastern Nigeria was studied. A total of 114 pigs were sampled comprising of 48 males and 66 females. Thirty-seven pigs were sampled in Anambra State, 46 in Enugu State and 31 in Ebonyi State with 38 being piglets and 76 adults. The blood values compared favourably with the reference values except for MCV and MCH that were slightly lower than the standard. The mean total WBC and neutrophil values were slightly higher than the standard. The PCV, Hb, MCHC and basophils were not significantly different (p>0.05) between the states. The RBC count was significantly (p.0.01) lower in Anambra State when compared with other states whereas Enugu State was significantly lower (p<0.05) than Ebonyi State. The MCV and MCH were significantly higher (p<0.05) in Anambra State when compared with the other states. However, the WBC, Neutrophil, Lymphocyte and Eosinophil counts are significantly (p.0.05) higher in Ebonyi State when compared with other states (Anambra and Enugu). There was no significant difference (p.0.05) among sexes and ages in all the parameters tested. The values obtained could be used as reference values for pigs in South-eastern Nigeria. The clinical importance of the haematology was discussed.