Management of Mastitis Concurrent with Parasitism in a Three and Half Year-Old Sahel Doe

Collins chimezie udechukwu; ishaku yohanna likita; samaila danbirni; kelvin olutimilehin jolayemi; esther godiya haruna

doi:10.5455/JRVS.20241124122617

Abstract
A three and half year-old Sahel doe from Sabon gari was presented to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria with complaints of swollen udder and inability of the kids to suckle from the udder. History revealed that the doe delivered (a buckling and doeling) 4-days prior to presentation and was managed semi-intensively with 6 other goats (5 doe and 1 buck). They were fed bean-husk, hay and there was no prior history of medication or vaccination. On physical examination the doe weighed 41kg and looked apparently healthy, except for the swollen left udder, and the doe expressed pain on palpation. There was also epilation, slightly pale ocular mucous membrane and enlarged pre-mammary lymph nodes. The temperature (38.8oC), pulse (70 beats/min) and respiratory (20 cycles/min) rates were within normal reference values. Blood, milk and faecal samples were obtained aseptically from the doe for haematological, bacteriological and parasitological tests. The result showed slight anaemia (PCV=23%), neutrophilia (55%), and the milk culture yielded the growth of Escherichia coli which was sensitive to amoxicillin and cefoxitin. Feacal sample showed the presence of Strongyle eggs (++) and Coccidia oocyst (+). The doe was treated with Inj. 15% Amoxicillin LA (15mg/kg, intramuscularly stat.), 2.5% Albendazole (10mg/kg, orally stat.) and 1% Inj. Diclofenac (2.5mg/kg). Follow-up after four days revealed complete resolution of clinical symptoms, parasite clearance, and normal suckling behaviour. This case demonstrates the efficacy of combined treatment approach in managing mastitis and parasitism, emphasising the importance of prompt veterinary intervention.

Key words: Amoxicillin, Coccidia oocyst, Esherichia coli, Mastitis, Strongyle spp