HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS AND SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY OF UDA SHEEP FED ENSILED MILLET PANICLE HUSK MEAL IN REPLACEMENT OF COWPEA HUSK

This study evaluated the haematological and serum biochemical responses of Uda sheep fed
diets containing ensiled urea-treated millet panicle husk meal (EUTMPHM) as a replacement
for cowpea husk. Sixteen (16) growing Uda rams were randomly assigned to four dietary
treatments in a completely randomized design, with EUTMPHM replacing cowpea husk at 0%,
10%, 20%, and 30% inclusion levels. Blood samples were collected at the end of the feeding
trial to assess haematological indices and serum metabolites. Results indicated that most
haematological parameters, including red blood cell count, mean corpuscular volume, and white
blood cell count, remained within normal physiological ranges across all treatments. Notably,
haemoglobin concentration and packed cell volume improved significantly at moderate
inclusion levels, suggesting enhanced oxygen-carrying capacity. Serum biochemical analysis
revealed stable lipid profiles and renal function, although reductions in total protein, albumin,
and cholesterol were observed at higher inclusion levels. The findings suggest that EUTMPHM
can be safely incorporated up to 30% in the diets of Uda sheep without compromising health
status. However, nutritional supplementation may be necessary to optimize protein and energy
balance. This study supports millet panicle husk as a sustainable feed resource in small ruminant
production systems.