Background: The knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of commercial broiler farmers regarding poultry nutrition and health management have a significant impact on the productivity and sustainability of poultry farming. This study was conducted between June and August 2022, involving a total of 150 farms- 75 each from the districts of Kathmandu and Rupandehi in Nepal. Methods: A structured questionnaire was developed to assess farmers' knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to nutrition and health management in commercial broiler farming. Results: The findings reveal that only 30% of respondents had received training in poultry farming practices, while 73.3% relied on poultry farming as their primary source of income. Despite 56.67% acknowledging good government policies on nutritional feeding, 60% reported inappropriate antimicrobial use in feed formulation. Similarly, 60% admitted to adding antimicrobials to feed at any time to prevent illness in birds. Furthermore, 76.67% admitted to skipping one or two doses of prescribed medication. The study also found that 46.67% of respondents believed that routine feed was sufficient for poultry, while 36.67% thought that the use of probiotics and feed supplements was equivalent. Additionally, 46.67% of respondents added feed additives when birds failed to reach average weight. Likewise, 40% agreed on using probiotics and feed supplements at any age. Although all respondents were aware of who is authorized to prescribe medications, only 73.3% consulted veterinarians. Conclusion: The study identifies significant gaps between knowledge and practice, particularly in areas such as antimicrobial resistance, feed management, and disease prevention. These findings highlight the need for effective training and targeted policy interventions. The results will help inform educational programs for farmers, aiming to standardize production practices and support the sustainable growth of both the farming community and the poultry industry in Nepal.
Background: General anesthesia can alter hematological parameters, influencing clinical interpretation of laboratory results. Understanding these effects in pediatric animals is crucial for safe anesthetic management. Methods: Nine clinically healthy local-breed puppies, approximately 4 weeks old, were administered atropine (0.05 mg/kg, IV), followed by xylazine (1 mg/kg, IV) and ketamine (10 mg/kg, IV). Blood samples were collected before anesthesia, during anesthesia, and after recovery. Hematological parameters (WBC, Lym%, Gran%, Mid%, RBC, HGB, HCT, MCV, MCH, MCHC, RDW, PLT, MPV, PDW, PCT, P-LCR, and P-LCC) were analyzed using a Dymind Automated Hematology Analyzer. Data were expressed as mean ± SD. Statistical analysis was performed using repeated measures ANOVA, with p-values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Statistically significant decreases were observed in RBC (p = 0.0037), HGB (p = 0.0109), HCT (p = 0.0063), MCH (p = 0.0251), RDW-SD (p = 0.0135), and platelet count (p = 0.0072) during anesthesia, followed by partial recovery post-anesthesia. Other parameters, including WBC, lymphocyte percentage, granulocyte percentage, MCV, MCHC, MPV, and RDW-CV, showed no significant variation. The puppies showed induction average 1.49 minutes, duration average 34 minutes, and recovery 76.66 minutes with suitable depth and muscle relaxation. Conclusion: Xylazine-ketamine anesthesia with atropine premedication induces transient but significant hematological alterations, mainly affecting red blood cell indices and platelet counts in puppies. These findings are important for interpreting hematological results during the perioperative period in pediatric canine patients. The given combination of anesthetics produces suitable anesthesia for major surgery.
: Brucellosis is a contagious zoonotic disease that poses a major threat to livestock health and productivity, especially in buffaloes. In Bangladesh, information on its prevalence in coastal regions such as Bhola—where traditional Bathan-based buffalo farming is practiced—is limited. Seasonal variation, water source, grazing patterns, and demographic factors such as age, sex, and body condition score (BCS) may influence disease occurrence. Understanding these determinants is essential for designing effective control strategies for the region. Methods: The study was conducted in Bhola District, Bangladesh, from January 1 to December 30, 2024. A total of 150 buffaloes were screened for brucellosis using the Rose Bengal Plate Test (RBPT) and indirect ELISA (i-ELISA). Information on age, sex, BCS, season, water source, grazing area, and Bathan hygiene was collected through structured interviews and direct observation. Results: The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis was 8% by RBPT and 6.67% by i-ELISA. Although female buffaloes aged 2–4 years showed a higher prevalence (7.37%) than males (3.57%), and animals with a low BCS (1–2) had the highest infection rate (11.90%), these differences were not statistically significant. Prevalence was highest during the rainy season (12%), and buffaloes consuming river or pond water had higher seropositivity (7.92%) compared with those using tube-well water (4.08%). Buffaloes grazing in altered grazing areas (7.14%) and those kept in poorly managed Bathans (7.96%) also showed higher prevalence than their counterparts; however, none of these associations reached statistical significance. Conclusion: Although variations in seroprevalence were observed across sex, age, body condition, season, water source, grazing practices, and Bathan hygiene, none of these factors showed statistically significant associations with brucellosis in buffaloes in Bhola. These descriptive findings nonetheless suggest potential risk patterns and underscore the importance of continuous surveillance, good husbandry practices, and farmer awareness to minimize the risk of brucellosis and its economic impact in the region.
Background: Trypanosoma spp. infection is a significant disease affecting both humans and animals, including cats. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. in domestic and stray cats in the Mymensingh district, Bangladesh. Methods: A total of 36 blood samples were collected from cats (16 males and 20 females), prepared as thin blood smears, and examined under a microscope at the Department of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Results: Out of the 36 samples, only 3 (8.00%) were infected with Trypanosoma spp. Both young (<1 year old) and adult (>1 year) cats showed an equal prevalence of 8.33% with trypanosomiasis. The prevalence was relatively higher in females (6.25%) than in males (10.0%). The prevalence of Trypanosoma spp. was observed throughout the year, with 7.6%, 8.33%, and 9.1% prevalence during the summer, rainy, and winter seasons, respectively. The prevalence was relatively higher in the rainy season compared to the summer, and higher in the winter season compared to the summer. Conclusion: This study suggests that Trypanosoma infection in domestic and stray cats is a persistent issue regardless of age, sex, or season.
Background: The heating rate during the thawing of frozen semen significantly impacts the functional activation of mitochondria, which affects sperm motility assessment. Methods: This study examined the effect of thawing temperature on the motility of spermatozoa in cryopreserved semen. A total of 240 semen straws (0.25 ml each) from 24 bulls (8 Jersey, 8 Holstein Friesian (HF), and 8 Murrah breed), aged 2 to 6 years, were used. Semen was collected, analyzed, processed, frozen, and stored in liquid nitrogen using a standard protocol with a tris-citrate-egg yolk extender. Samples were thawed for 30 seconds in a water bath at temperatures T1: 32°C, T2: 34°C, T3: 36°C, T4: 38°C, and T5: 40°C. Sperm motility, progressive motility, fast motility, slow motility, and immotile percentage of the frozen semen were evaluated. A computer-assisted semen analyzer (CASA) was used for analysis. The data was entered into MS-Excel and analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), with the significance between treatments assessed using Duncan’s multiple range test (DMRT) post hoc test. Results: Jersey semen showed the best motility percentage at T3 (p<0.05) (T1: 53.025±6.73, T2: 60.01±3.81, T3: 74.33±1.40, T4: 65.59±3.17, T5: 59.92±3.58). HF semen also showed the best motility percentage at T3 (p<0.05) (T1: 60.67±6.31, T2: 55.93±6.31, T3: 76.6±2.28, T4: 72.93±2.10, T5: 57.69±2.28). Murrah semen showed the best motility percentage at T4 (p<0.05) (T1: 56.63±3.93, T2: 58.58±4.34, T3: 77.09±1.59, T4: 82.72±4.03, T5: 72.87±4.00). Progressive motility (%) was highest at T3 for Jersey (52.41±2.97), T3 for HF (56.29±4.65), and T4 for Murrah (63.94±6.37) (p<0.05). Fast motility (%) was highest at T3 for Jersey (12.71±2.04), T3 for HF (18.43±1.63), and T4 for Murrah (12.589±2.74) (p<0.05). Slow motility (%) was lowest at T3 for Jersey (27.8±3.43), T3 for HF (34.23±2.72), and T4 for Murrah (31.32±4.72) (p<0.05). Immotility (%) was lowest at T3 for Jersey (25.73±1.37), T3 for HF (23.4±2.28), and T4 for Murrah (17.27±4.03) (p<0.05). Conclusion: Thawing at T3 (36°C) enhances motility, progressive motility, and fast motility while reducing slow motility and immotile percentage in Jersey semen. Similarly, thawing at T4 (38°C) improves motility, progressive motility, and fast motility while reducing slow motility and immotile percentage in Murrah semen.
Background: Cryptosporidium sp. infection is a significant zoonotic disease affecting both humans and animals, including cats. The primary objectives of this research were to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium sp. infection and to identify the pathological lesions caused by the infection in domestic and stray cats in the Mymensingh district, Bangladesh. Methods: In this study, fecal samples from 36 cats were collected and analyzed using both direct smear and safranin staining methods to detect Cryptosporidium oocysts. Additionally, the intestines of euthanized cats were examined for gross and microscopic lesions. The study was performed at the Department of Parasitology and the Department of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Results: A total of 36 adult cats (16 males and 20 females) were examined. Among them, three cats (8.3%; 95% Confidence Interval: 2.2–23.6) tested positive for Cryptosporidium sp. infection. The prevalence was higher in young cats under 1 year of age (16.6%) compared to adult cats over 1 year (4.1%). Females showed a higher prevalence (10%) compared to males (6.2%). The infection was detected throughout the year except during the winter season. Prevalence was higher during the summer season (15.4%) compared to the rainy season (8.3%). However, none of the observed differences in prevalence by age, sex, or season were statistically significant. Conclusion: The study highlights that Cryptosporidium sp. infection is a health concern for both domestic and stray cats, regardless of their age, sex, or season. Regular screening and treatment of domestic cats are recommended to reduce the risk of zoonotic transmission to humans.
Background: The digestive system of birds is crucial for providing their bodies with the nutrition they require for upkeep, development, and reproduction. The study was conducted to investigate the histological variation of the mucosa of the digestive tract and the distribution pattern of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) in broiler and cock. Methods: A total of 20 (6-7 weeks old) broiler and cock were divided into two equal groups (n=10). After cervical subluxation, different segments of gastrointestinal tract were collected and stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin stain. Results: The histomorphological study revealed that the proventriculus lamina epithelium was higher in broiler, whereas the esophageal lamina epithelium and tunica mucosa were thicker in cock. The cock had the highest level of proventriculus’s mucosal thickness, villi height and width of jejunum and ileum and small intestine crypt depth. The lymphocyte population in the upper part of the proventriculus and Meckel's diverticulum were highest in the broiler. The highest length, breadth of lymphatic nodules, and crypt depth of Meckel's diverticulum were found in cock. The mucosal thickness and depth of the broiler's caecum and cecal tonsil crypts were the highest. The lymphocyte population of the cecal tonsil and thickness of tunica mucosa, and depth of the crypts of Lieberkuhn’s of colo-rectum were highest in broiler than cock. The lamina propria, lamina epithelium, core of the esophageal villi, the upper part of proventriculus, from duodenum to ileum, Meckel's diverticulum, caecum, cecal tonsil and colo-rectum of the broiler and cock all had high lymphocyte population frequencies. Conclusion: The study's results indicate significant histological variations in the gastrointestinal tracts and GALT between broiler and cock, potentially impacting their general well-being and productivity.
Background: The present experiment was conducted to determine an effective basic medium and its hormone supplementation for in vitro maturation of cow oocytes. Methods: The experiment was conducted at the Department of Animal Nutrition, Genetics, and Breeding at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka- 1207, from January 2020 to December 2020. This study assessed the efficacy of Tissue Culture Media 199 (TCM-199) and TCM-199 supplemented with varying dosages of Gonadotropin (0.5, 1, 5, 10, and 15 µg/ml) hormone for the in vitro maturation of bovine oocytes. Synthetic ovurelin is used as a substitute of gonadotropin. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from cow ovaries by aspiration method and matured for 48 hours at 37.5ºC with 5% CO2 in humidified air in basic and supplemented media. Results: Significantly higher (p<0.05) number of follicles were aspirated in ovaries without corpus luteum (CL) (4.59±0.27) compared with ovaries containing CL (3.05±0.13). Consequently, more COCs were found in ovaries without CL (4.61±0.25) than in ovaries with CL (1.98±0.16). The maturation rate was significantly higher (p<0.05) in (TCM-199 supplemented with gonadotropin 10 µg/ml) medium (65.71±2.74) than in other treatments. A higher maturation rate was found up to 10 µg/ml gonadotropin supplementation, but the maturation rate began to decline when the dose exceeded 10 µg/ml. Conclusion: Therefore, ovaries without CL could be used in TCM-199, supplemented with Gonadotropin (10 µg/ml) as basic medium for optimal in vitro maturation rates of cow oocytes.
Abstract Background: Brucellosis is a zoonotic disease which is endemic in Bangladesh. The prevalence of bovine brucellosis in subsistence management system in Bangladesh is low. However, the prevalence of bovine brucellosis at Central Cattle Breeding and Dairy Farm (CCBDF) is reported to be very high and Brucella abortus DNA has also been detected from cows’ milk of this farm. The principal manifestation of bovine brucellosis is abortion in pregnant cows, which is common at CCBDF. The role of brucellosis in abortion at CCBDF has not been ascertained. Hence, this study was undertaken to confirm Brucella spp. as the etiology of abortion in cows at CCBDF. Materials and Methods: Aborted fetal membranes and vaginal swabs from 3 cows, in which late abortion occurred, were collected aseptically from the CCBDF. The samples were initially stained with modified Zeihl-Neelsen staining method. The stain-positive samples were ground individually using a pestle and mortar, and a homogenized mixture was prepared by adding normal saline. Two milliliters of the homogenate from each sample were inoculated subcutaneously into a guinea pig. The sera of guinea pigs were collected after 3rd week of inoculation to perform rose Bengal test (RBT) and rapid antibody test (RAT). Result: Samples from two cows showed positive staining result in which numerous pink-colored coccobacilli were seen. All the sera collected were tested positive for both RBT and RAT. It is evident from this study that three of two abortions at CCBDF were due to brucellosis. Conclusion: Guineapig inoculation technique could be used as a good alternative of culture for confirming the diagnosis of brucellosis from contaminated clinical samples like placenta.
Background: Ruminants, especially cattle and goats, are prone to a wide range of congenital anomalies influenced by dietary, genetic, or environmental factors. Understanding these anomalies is essential for improving animal health and productivity. This study aimed to identify congenital defects in calves and kids across three upazilas in Bangladesh and to analyze their occurrence concerning breed, sex, and season. Methods: Retrospective data on species, sex, breed, and season (summer, rainy, and winter) were collected from the register books of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital (VTH), Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh; Upazila Veterinary Hospital, Mymensingh Sadar, Mymensingh; and Upazila Veterinary Hospital, Kendua, Netrokona, spanning July 2013 to June 2023. Among 1159 cases, 1050 involved calves, and 109 involved kids. Data were analyzed using the Chi-square test in SPSS version 20. Results: The most prevalent congenital anomaly identified was umbilical hernia (52.6%), followed by dermoid cyst (21.4%), atresia ani (15%), persistent urachus (5.8%), knuckling (3.4%), and rectovaginal fistula (1.8%). Both cattle (55.8%) and goats (57.8%) showed a higher prevalence of anomalies in males. Specifically, atresia ani, dermoid cyst, and umbilical hernia were more common in male calves, with occurrences of 62.4%, 57.35%, and 52.9%, respectively, while persistent urachus was found predominantly in males (80.3%). Knuckling was slightly more prevalent in females (52.8%), and rectovaginal fistula occurred exclusively in females. Regarding breed, persistent urachus was more frequently observed in indigenous breeds (55.7%), while atresia ani and rectovaginal fistula showed high frequencies in indigenous calves, with 65% and 63.2%, respectively. Conversely, dermoid cyst, umbilical hernia, and knuckling were more common in crossbred animals, occurring at frequencies of 55.6%, 60%, and 55.6%, respectively. Seasonal variations also played a role, with atresia ani most frequent in the rainy season (35%), while all other anomalies showed their lowest occurrences during this season. Persistent urachus was most prevalent in winter (41%), while dermoid cyst, umbilical hernia, and rectovaginal fistula were most common in summer, with frequencies of 38.2%, 39.7%, and 42.1%, respectively. Additionally, cattle exhibited a higher occurrence of congenital anomalies in crossbred calves during summer, whereas Black Bengal kids were more affected during winter. Conclusion: Calves exhibited a higher occurrence of diverse congenital anomalies, with umbilical hernia being the most common, while kids were predominantly affected by atresia ani. Anomalies were more frequently observed in male animals and during the summer season.
Background: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is a highly infectious and economically important transboundary disease that is rapidly spreading to the globe. The disease causes high morbidity and a low mortality rate of infection. The animals show acute or chronic illnesses depending on the immune responses of the hosts. The economic burden of LSD manifested the poor-quality hides, a drop in milk and meat production, abortion, and death. Methods: This systematic literature review was accomplished according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The literature on lumpy skin disease has been explored over the last two decades and searched keywords on online databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus. Both automated and manual searching tools were used to screen the articles. The literature published other than English was rejected during the screening process. Conference papers were excluded during the screening. Results: LSD is transmitted by blood-sucking arthropods and is most prevalent in summer and rainy seasons. Exotic-bred cattle and calves are highly susceptible. Although the disease has low mortality, the high mortality of the disease prevails in endemic regions in complicated cases. Calves from unvaccinated cows should be vaccinated at any age, on the other hand, the calves from vaccinated cows should be immunized at 3 months of age. Animals should be vaccinated before the risk period. Strict biosecurity, quarantine, and immunoprophylaxis can reduce the prevalence of the disease. Conclusions: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) is an acute infectious and contagious disease affecting cattle and water buffaloes. The disease causes serious economic loss due to decreased production, skin problems, and mortality in complicated cases. Further details on genetic characterization, transmission dynamics, and host-pathogen interaction should be performed to prevent the prevalence of the disease in emerging or re-emerging countries.
Background: This study aimed to compare different parameters between right and left ovaries, ovaries with corpus luteum, and without corpus luteum, and to determine the most effective oocyte collection technique. Methods: The experiment was conducted at the Department of Animal Nutrition, Genetics, and Breeding at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka- 1207, from January 2019 to December 2019. A total of 431 ovaries were collected from different abattoirs in Dhaka. Oocytes were harvested through different oocyte collection techniques like aspiration, slicing, and puncture. Data on parameters like weight, length, width, total number of visible follicles, number of follicles aspirated, collected grade A, grade B, grade C, and grade D cumulus-oocyte- complexes (COCs) per ovary, total number of COCS were recorded following standard procedures. Results: The length (cm) of the right ovaries (1.31±0.04) was found to be significantly (p<0.05) greater than that of the left ovaries (1.18±0.04). The number of normal COCs (Grade A and Grade B) was significantly (p<0.01) higher in left ovaries (2.14±0.08 and 1.65±0.08) compared to right ovaries (0.36±0.08 and 0.23±0.08), respectively. Additionally, ovaries without a corpus luteum (CL) had a significantly (p<0.01) higher number of normal COCs (Grade A and Grade B) (1.21±0.07 and 0.90±0.07) compared to those with a CL (0.32±0.09 and 0.29±0.09), respectively. The number of normal COCs (Grade A and Grade B) was significantly (p<0.05) higher using aspiration (3.80±0.60 and 3.33±0.42) compared to slicing (3.67±0.78 and 3.20±0.54) and puncture (2.20±0.60 and 1.40±0.42), respectively. Conclusion: The highest yield of normal COCs was obtained through aspiration, followed by slicing and puncture. Left ovaries contained more normal COCs and a higher number of follicles compared to right ovaries. Additionally, ovaries without a corpus luteum had a higher number of follicles and normal COCs than those with a corpus luteum. Therefore, it can be concluded that left ovaries, ovaries without a corpus luteum, and the aspiration technique are optimal for obtaining quality COCs.
Background: Lumpy skin disease (LSD) has emerged as a significant threat to cattle production in Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh. Our study aimed to assess the prevalence, mortality, and demographic distribution of LSD in the study area. Materials and Methods: A total of 634 cattle were observed during the study period. Data were collected using a well-prepared questionnaire through face-to-face interviews conducted in Chuadanga Sadar Upazila, Bangladesh, from August 7, 2022, to October 6, 2022. Results: The prevalence of LSD was 22.24% with variations observed between indigenous (51.77%) and cross-bred cattle (48.23%). The overall LSD mortality was 7%. Cross-breed male cattle showed a higher prevalence of LSD (57.35%) in comparison to cross-breed female-cattle (42.65%). The LSD prevalence was relatively higher in age-group > 6 months than other age groups. The average duration of illness varied among indigenous and cross-bred cattle. Indigenous cattle showed a longer average illness duration (6.79 days) compared to cross-breed cattle (5.5 days). The highest prevalence was observed in cattle aged up to 30 days (4.4%), with indigenous cattle accounting for 43% and cross-bred cattle for 57%. Conclusion: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the prevalence, mortality, and demographic distribution of LSD in cattle at Chuadanga Sadar Upazila. The results offer a foundation for developing targeted interventions to control and manage LSD, thereby safeguarding cattle production in the region. Specifically, to optimize LSD vaccination strategies, it is recommended to prioritize indigenous cattle and male cross-bred due to their elevated susceptibility. Furthermore, particular emphasis should be placed on cattle aged below one month, with a specific focus on prioritizing treatment for male cross-bred to effectively mitigate the risk of fatalities.
Background: The workshop aimed to identify the constraints and way forward to extend the artificial insemination in buffalo, sheep and goat countrywide. Methods: A day long workshop was organized jointly by the Coastal Vet Society Bangladesh (CVS-BD) and Grameen Jano Unnayan Sangstha (GJUS) at Bangladesh Development Society conference hall in Barishal district of Bangladesh. A total of 100 stakeholders in different aspect were joined in this workshop. Results: On the workshop, the constraints were lack of buffalo, sheep and goat breeding policy, recording systems, knowledge about the high-yielding breed, scarcity of quality feed, fodder and pasture land, lack of technical skills in reproduction and production personal, no or limited facilities to breed improvement technologies, lack of breeding infrastructure, non-availability of proven sire, no coordination among farmers, researchers, public and private organization, universities as well as other beneficiaries. The recommendations to overcome those constraints were to build up and strengthening the breeding policies and infrastructure, continuous up-gradation of native breed by high yielding breeds or varieties, adopted with assisted reproductive technologies, frequently advertise the beneficial aspects of buffalo milk and meat, development of manpower by technical training, national and international collaboration should be strengthened, private investment should be encouraged and alternative feed supply is needed to warrant. Conclusion: It is concluded that an initiative through public and private partnership or collaboration is needed to extent the artificial insemination program in buffalo, sheep and goat countrywide.
Background: The first service conception rate (FSCR) is an important parameter for any artificial insemination (AI) programme. The present study was conducted to determine the FSCR and its influencing factors in cows inseminated with frozen semen produced by Rural Development Academy, Bogura. Methods: Data were collected from 372 cows at 39 villages under Sherpur Upazilla of Bogura district on breed, age, body condition score (BCS), parity, milk yield, suckling, AI season and the interval between oestrus to AI using a questionnaire. Results: The overall FSCR of cows was 66.4% and the service per conception was 1.53. The FSCR was higher (74.1%) in local cows compared to the Holstein-Friesian (HF) cross counterpart (64.2%). The FSCR was higher (70.4%) in 24-47 months old cows compared to 84-98 months old counterpart (61.5%). The highest FSCR (81.6%) was observed in cows with 3.0 to 3.5 BCS and the lowest (25.7%) was observed in cows with 2.5 BCS. The highest FSCR (68.3%) was observed in the 0 (zero) parity (heifers) group of cows and the lowest (62.5%) was observed in the 4-7 parity counterpart. The highest FSCR (72.4%) was observed in cows yielded daily >15-22 L milk and the lowest (62.1%) was observed in cows yielded ≤5 L milk. The highest FSCR (72.7%) was observed in suckling restricted cows and the lowest (60.9%) was observed in cows that had several times suckling daily. The highest FSCR (72.1%) was observed in cows received inseminations in Rainy (July-October) season and the lowest (58.4%) was observed in cows received inseminations in Winter (November-February). The highest FSCR (67.1%) was observed in cows received inseminations between 12-18 hrs of detection of oestrus and the lowest (59.1%) was observed in cows received insemination between 8-11 hrs of detection of oestrus. However, the difference in FSCR in cows with different BCS groups was significant (p<0.01). Conclusion: The current FSCR in cows can be considered to be satisfactory. The BCS of cows significantly influences the FSCR in cows.
Background Dairy farming is a major component of livestock in Bangladesh. However, a baseline study on the welfare of dairy cattle in Bangladesh is still new. Therefore, a cross-sectional study was performed to assess the present welfare status of dairy cows at the farm level. Method A total of thirty-six dairy farms of Chattogram having a total of 1110 cross-bred multiparous lactating cows were studied to assess the health and welfare through farm investigation and animal-based measurements using a well-structured questionnaire. Data regarding farm management were collected by observation of the farm and interviewing the farmers. On the other hand, the cows were observed to identify the disorders with a special focus on the hock, claw, and hoof abnormalities. The data were then analyzed using Stata-14 and p<0.05 was taken as significant. Results The study showed that most of the farms used an intensive system (75%) while 47 and 17% of the farms had moderately dirty or dirty floors, respectively. Improper manure disposal led to heavy fly infestation (33%). Lameness and stereotypy behaviors were found in 12% and 14% of animals, respectively. Hock, claw, and hoof abnormalities were found in 30, 37, and 28% of the animals, respectively, whereas injuries were observed in 19% of the cows. About 25% of the injuries occurred in face-out rearing systems; 1.8 times more than the face-in systems. Moreover, cows on farms with bad drainage systems were 2.4 times more likely to have injuries compared with cows reared on farms with good drainage systems. It was also observed that hock and hoof abnormalities were significantly (p<0.05) associated with the quality and conditions of floor, and drainage systems. Conclusions These results suggest that the welfare of dairy cows in the commercial farms in Chattogram of Bangladesh is compromised and needs to be improved for better production and profitability.
Background: This study aimed to investigate the occurrence of surgical conditions in sheep and analyze their distribution based on age, sex, sheep, and seasonal variation. Methods: Retrospective data on surgical conditions in sheep were compiled from Upazila Livestock Offices and Veterinary Hospitals within Mymensingh division between January 2021 and December 2021. Simple descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Results: A total of 788 surgical cases in sheep were documented. The predominant surgical conditions observed in sheep included wounds (29.18%), myiasis (15.10%), bloat (14.08%), subcutaneous cysts (12.56%), and foot rot (8.24%). In addition, there were instances of abscesses (6.47%), horn fractures (4.56%), atresia ani (3.93%), dermoid cysts (1.64%), dog bites (1.90%), overgrown hooves (1.52%), and gangrenous mastitis (0.63%). Surgical affections were more prevalent in adult sheep (73.35%) compared to young ones (26.64%). Among adult sheep, myiasis, bloat, subcutaneous cysts, and foot rot showed higher prevalences. In females, myiasis, subcutaneous cysts, bloat, and abscesses occurred more frequently than in male sheep. The occurrence of surgical affections was relatively higher in adult sheep during the rainy season, followed by summer, autumn, and winter during the rainy season followed by summer, autumn, and winter. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the variable demographic distribution of surgical affections in sheep. The observed patterns suggest that the surgical disorders pose a substantial threat to sheep rearing in the study areas.
Background: Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly isolated bacterial pathogen in clinical and subclinical mastitis among cows. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus), in cows with clinical and subclinical mastitis in Cumilla and Chattogram regions. Additionally, antimicrobial resistance patterns were identified. Methods: A total of 429 milk samples were collected from different teats of 125 cows with clinical and subclinical mastitis across 15 farms. Standard bacteriological methods were applied to isolate and identify Staphylococcus aureus. Confirmation of Staphylococcus aureus was achieved through PCR for the presence of the nuc gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was conducted for 11 antimicrobials. Isolates showing resistance to cefoxitin and oxacillin underwent mecA gene screening to identify MRSA. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to identify risk factors associated with the presence of Staphylococcus aureus Results: The study revealed that 13.54% (95% CI, 5.00–38.78%) of mastitis-infected cows tested positive for Staphylococcus aureus. Staphylococcus aureus isolates showed the highest resistance to penicillin, cloxacillin, and streptomycin (61.54%, 53.85%, and 53.85%, respectively), while manifesting the least resistance to ciprofloxacin, ceftriaxone, and sulfamethoxazole + trimethoprim (92%, 77%, and 77%, respectively), and gentamycin (69.23%). The prevalence of MRSA was 2.08% (95% CI, 1.55–38.34%). Conclusion: This study represents the first report of MRSA in clinical and subclinical mastitis milk samples in Bangladesh. The findings emphasize the importance of ongoing monitoring of Staphylococcus aureus and MRSA in mastitis cases, considering their prevalence and patterns of antimicrobial resistance.
Background: Assessing semen characteristics is an important step before semen preservation. This study aimed to collect, evaluate, and preserve indigenous buck semen in the coastal area of Bangladesh. Methods: The study was conducted at the Theriogenology and Animal Reproductive Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Medicine, Surgery and Obstetrics, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, from July 2021 to June 2022. We selected four bucks based on non-return rate, pregnancy rate of does, and various parameters including age, body weight, scrotal circumference, and testicular epididymal length. These selected animals received a regimen of vitamins, minerals, anthelmintics, and concentrated feed. Semen was collected using the artificial vagina method, and data on color, odor, volume, viscosity, mass activity, consistency, concentration, and individual sperm motility were recorded and analyzed after collection. Results: The semen of bucks exhibited a creamy white color and a fishy odor. The mean (±SD) of scrotal circumference (SC) of four bucks was 20.43±0.52, while the testicular epididymal length (TEL) was 11.03±0.59. Buck-2 (B-2) and buck-1 (B-1) showed significantly (p<0.05) higher volumes than buck-3 (B-3), and buck (B-4). B-1 also displayed significantly (p<0.05) higher mass activity compared to B-2, B-3, and B-4. In addition, B-2 and B-1 showed significantly (p<0.05) greater consistency than B-3, and B-4. The highest concentrations were observed in B-2 and B-1 compared to B-3 and B-4. In terms of individual sperm motility, B-1 showed significantly (p<0.05) higher motility (81.0±05.16) than B-2 (71.0±03.94), B-3 (66.0±03.94), and B-4 (80.0±07.45). Regarding chilling duration, a significant reduction in sperm motility was observed during storage at 4°C. This indicated that sperm motility varied significantly (p ≤ 0.000) with varying chilling durations. Conclusions: The study suggests that the individual progressive sperm motility at 4°C gradually decreases but remains suitable for artificial insemination up to 72 h (≥50±7.65). B-1 and B-2 demonstrated relatively promising results in semen evaluation and preservation. Further study is necessary to determine the pregnancy rate of does after insemination with chilled semen.
Background: This study aimed to conduct a macro-morphometric evaluation of the primary reproductive organs, specifically the testes, in Turkey tom. Methods: Twelve healthy, mature birds, with weights ranging from 5.450±0.12 kg to 7.570±0.51 kg, and ages between 28 weeks and 48 weeks, were sourced from the SMA Organic Agro Farm in Belgari and surrounding turkey farms in the Sherpur upazilla of Bogura district. Testicular measurements were performed along with their macroscopic description. Results: The testes were found on the sides of the body's midline, underneath the kidneys, and at the back of the lungs. At 28 weeks of age, the turkey tom's testes were measured. The left testis had a length of 3.74±22.38 cm, width of 2.08±2.63 cm, thickness of 1.87±5.93 cm, and weighed 9.50±12.01 gm, while the right testis measured 3.55±4.50 cm in length, 1.95±2.48 cm in width, 1.58±1.99 cm in thickness, and weighed 7.83±9.91 gm. The average live body weight at this stage was 5.670±7.17 kg. At 48 weeks old, the turkey tom weighed around 7.800±9.86 kg. The left testis measured about 4.15±5.26 cm in length, 2.40±9.29 cm in width, 1.92±5.92 cm in thickness, and weighed approximately 10.50±13.28 gm. On the other hand, the right testis was around 3.57±4.51 cm long, 2.04±2.58 cm wide, 1.72±2.18 cm thick, and weighed about 9.33±11.80 gm. Conclusions: Our study shows that as the Turkey tom grows up, its testes change in size and weight. We noticed that the left testis is consistently bigger and heavier than the right one. This suggests that the left testis gets larger as the turkey tom gets older. The reason for such differences could be explored in future research.
