Protein-Rich Diets to Control Parasitism

Indian researchers conducted an experiment to determine the effect of dietary protein supplementation on fecal egg counts and hematological parameters in goat kids with sub-clinical nematodosis.

Twenty goat kids (3-5 months old with an average body weight of 8.90 kg/19.6 lb) were randomly allocated to four groups: T1, served as a negative control, receiving no concentrate feed. T2, T3, and T4 received concentrate feed containing 16, 20, and 24% digestible crude protein, respectively. Diets were formed by using crushed maize (corn), soybean meal, and de-oiled rice bran The experiment was carried out for 60 days.

Protein supplementation had a significant effect on fecal egg counts and packed cell volumes, even after 15 days. Haemonchus spp. were the predominate parasites found in the pooled fecal samples. Researchers concluded that dietary supplementation with different levels of protein in goats with sub clinical nematodosis had significant beneficial effects on reducing the worm egg count and on improving hematological profiles. They suggest protein-rich concentrate feed as part of a sustainable strategy to control gastrointestinal nematodosis in goat kids under semi-intensive conditions.

Source: Veterinary World, November 2015.