Analysis of gastrointestinal parasitic impact on goats: insights into infection rates, hematological and biochemical changes, and oxidative stress responses

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of gastrointestinal parasites on the health of goats through an analysis of mixed parasite infestation rates, haematological changes, biochemical alterations, and oxidative stress indices. The research, conducted at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Bareilly, India, involved the examination of 112 faecal samples from goats with diarrhoea. The blood and serum sample were drawn from 25 parasitic-infected goats and from 10 healthy goats. The results revealed a significant endoparasite infection rate of 76.7%, with mixed infections accounting for 60.4%. Haematological analysis indicated a decline in red blood cell count, hemoglobin levels, and packed cell volume, suggesting potential anaemia. Biochemical profiling revealed lowered total protein and albumin levels, indicating potential malnutrition or malabsorption due to parasitic infection. Oxidative stress markers, including elevated nitrate and malondialdehyde concentrations, suggested systemic inflammation and increased lipid peroxidation in affected goats. These findings highlight the multifaceted impact of gastrointestinal parasites on goat health and provide insights into the physiological and biochemical alterations associated with parasitic infections.