HAEMATOLOGY AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF MUTURU CATTLE FED DIETS CONTAINING THREE DIFFERENT BROWSE LEAVES

Abstract

This study evaluated the effects of three browse plants: Leucaena leucocephala, Gmelina arborea, and Gliricidia sepium on the haematological and serum biochemical parameters of Muturu cattle. Diets incorporating these plants at a 15% inclusion level were fed to the animals for 8 weeks, with water provided ad libitum. Haematological parameters, including packed cell volume (PCV), haemoglobin, red and white blood cell counts, neutrophils, basophils, and others, as well as serum biochemical parameters such as total protein, albumin, globulin, urea, and creatinine, were assessed. Data were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance, and significant means were separated using Duncan’s multiple range test. The results showed no significant differences (p>0.05) in haematological parameters, which remained within normal ranges for healthy cattle. However, serum biochemical analysis revealed significant differences (p<0.05) in albumin and urea levels, while other parameters, including aspartate aminotransferase, total bilirubin, and creatinine, fell within normal ranges. In conclusion, the inclusion of L. leucocephala, G. arborea, and G. sepium at 15% in concentrate diets had no adverse effects on haematological parameters and only influenced albumin and urea levels among serum biochemical parameters.