Haematobiochemical changes in subclinical experimental infection with Haemonchus contortus in Himalayan hill goats

Haemonchus contortus has been considered as one of the most important nematode parasites causing great economic loss to the livestock holders. An experimental trial was conducted in Himalayan hill goats fed with 3000 infective H. contortus larvae to see the changes in body weight, EPG and, to study the effect of subclinical haemonchosis on haematological parameters (Hb, PCV, TLC and DLC) and biochemical parameters (total protein, albumin, globulin, ALT, AST, GST and arginase). Pre-patent period of H. contortus, contortus in the present study was 21 days. Total loss in body weight in infected group was 1.09 kg compared to control and an approximate loss of `400 was observed due to infection. Hb and PCV levels showed initial increase up to 9^th day PI (post infection) and then decreased significantly up to 44^th day PI in infected group. Leucocytosis was observed in infected group throughout the experimental trial. Eosinophilia was observed in infected animals from 18^th day PI onwards. No appreciable changes were observed in other cell counts and serum biochemical enzymes.