Variations in Platelet Count and Total Protein in Relation to Differences in Sex, Age, Breed and Reproductive Status of Goats during the Cold-Dry Season (Harmattan)

Abstract

This study aimed at evaluating the effect of sex, age, breed and reproductive status on platelet count and total protein, and also to demonstrate the relationship between the two variables in goats during the cold-dry season. At the peak of the cold-dry season, 56 male and female goats belonging to Red Sokoto (n = 28) and Sahel (n = 28) as well as 14 Red Sokoto goats in the last trimester of gestation (n = 7) and early lactation (n = 7) were sampled and results statistically analysed. The results revealed that the platelet count was significantly (P<0.05) higher in kids, bucks, Red Sokoto and pregnant goats, while blood total protein was significantly lower (P<0.05) in kids, bucks, Red Sokoto and pregnant goats. In addition to this inverse relationship, a significantly negative correlation (P < 0.005; r=-0.330) was observed between platelet and blood total protein. It was concluded that sex, age, breed and reproductive status markedly influenced platelet count and blood total protein in an inverse manner with a negative correlation between the two variables in goats exposed to a season with low ambient temperature. More studies are needed to directly establish and understand the relationship between platelet count and blood total protein on exposure to low ambient temperature so as to explore its effect on animal health, particularly during the peri-partum period and its benefit in individuals with haemostatic challenges.