Prevalence of bovine coccidial infection in the semi-arid region of northeastern Nigeria

Abstract

A study was undertaken on the prevalence of coccidial infections of bovine in the semi-arid region of north-eastern Nigeria. Of the 147 bovine faecal samples examined, 108 (62.1%) had coccidial oocysts. According to breeds, however, no statistical variation (p>0.05) existed in the prevalence of infection between the Wadara 99 (61.9%), White Fulani 5 (62.5%), Sokoto
Gudali 2 (66.7%) or Crosses 2 (66.7%). Similarly, the prevalence of infection between male and female was not statistically significant (p>0.05). Meanwhile, the younger age group of 1 - 3 years had significantly (p<0.05) higher prevalence of infection than older groups of 4 - 6, and 7 - 9 years of age. From the fore going, it is evident that high prevalence of coccidial infections existed in different breeds of cattle in the semi-arid region of north-eastern Nigeria and calves are more predisposed to the infection.