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Efficacy of Ficus sycomorus (Sycamore Fig) Extract on Intestinal Coccidiosis in Experimentally Infected Rabbits. LIFE (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 12:life12060917. [PMID: 35743948 PMCID: PMC9227150 DOI: 10.3390/life12060917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/02/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effect of the Ficus sycomorus extract on Eimeria intestinalis in experimentally infected rabbits. For this purpose, forty male 30-day-old rabbits (Blanc de Bouscat) were divided into four groups (n = 10 in each group). Rabbits kept in the first group served as negative control (non-treated-non-infected). Rabbits kept in the second, third, and fourth groups were challenged at 10 weeks old with 3 × 104E. intestinalis sporulated oocysts. The third and fourth groups were treated orally with diclazuril 10% (0.05 mg/kg body weight) and F. sycomorus (100 mg/Kg) for three consecutive days, respectively. The efficacy was assessed based on the growth performance parameters, clinical symptoms, oocyst shedding, histopathological findings, and hematological parameters for 16 days post challenge. The study revealed that rabbits treated with F. sycomorus methanolic extract and diclazuril showed mild clinical symptoms with a significant decrease in oocyst shedding compared with the positive control. Moreover, the diclazuril-treated group showed the highest leukocytic count and the lowest monocytes percentage compared with other groups. Furthermore, the lowest lymphocytes percentage was recorded in the control positive group. Histopathologically, moderate coccidia infestation in the intestinal mucosa and moderate hydropic degeneration of hepatocytes were observed in the diclazuril treated group compared with the negative control. However, mild coccidia infestation in the intestinal mucosa and slight coagulative necrosis of hepatocytes was found in the F. sycomorus treated group. In conclusion, F. sycomorus methanolic extract had promising effects on the live performance, oocyst count, and blood variables, while it possesses adverse consequences on the hepatic tissues. Further studies are required to optimize the dose and extraction method to mitigate its side effects.
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Pharmacokinetics of toltrazuril and its metabolites after oral and parenteral administration of novel oil-based suspension based on micro-environmental pH-modifying solid dispersion in rabbits. Vet Parasitol 2021; 299:109580. [PMID: 34597913 DOI: 10.1016/j.vetpar.2021.109580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Toltrazuril (TOL) is a broad-spectrum anticoccidial drug which is widely used in poultry and livestock. A novel oral suspension based on soybean oil-based TOL micro-environmental pH-modifying solid dispersion (micro pHm SD) and a novel injectable suspension based on white oil-based TOL micro pHm SD were developed, showing high physicochemical stability and high drug release in vitro with good histocompatibility. The present study is to evaluate the pharmacokinetic profiles of TOL and its major metabolites, e.g. toltrazuril sulfoxide (TOLSO) and toltrazuril sulfone (TOLSO2) in rabbits following oral or subcutaneous administration with these two TOL SD suspensions. The plasma concentrations of TOL, TOLSO and TOLSO2 were determined by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Plasma concentration-time data were analyzed by a non-compartmental model analysis. The soybean oil-based TOL suspension after single oral administration at 20 mg/kg body weight (bw) significantly increased the plasma concentrations of TOL, TOLSO and TOLSO2 compared with Baycox® 5 % suspension. Following subcutaneous administration of the white oil-based TOL suspension (20 mg/kg bw), TOL was well absorbed and metabolized more slowly to TOLSO and TOLSO2, compared with oral administration, resulting in the significantly prolonged residence time in rabbits. The two suspensions significantly improved the relative bioavailability of TOL and its two metabolites, showing their potential usage in the control of coccidian in poultry and livestock.
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Sioutas G, Evangelou K, Vlachavas A, Papadopoulos E. Deaths Due to Mixed Infections with Passalurus ambiguus, Eimeria spp. and Cyniclomyces guttulatus in an Industrial Rabbit Farm in Greece. Pathogens 2021; 10:pathogens10060756. [PMID: 34203975 PMCID: PMC8232700 DOI: 10.3390/pathogens10060756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2021] [Revised: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 06/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Domestic rabbits are commercially farmed for their meat whilst gastrointestinal diseases can hinder their production. Passalurusambiguus and Eimeria spp. are two common rabbit intestinal parasites that can cause diarrhoea, among other symptoms, and in severe cases, death. C. guttulatus is a commensal yeast of the rabbits’ stomach that is considered apathogenic but can worsen symptoms in rabbits suffering from coccidiosis. In the present case report, we describe an outbreak of deaths in three different age groups (A: lactating does, B: 58 days old and C: 80 days old) in an industrial rabbit farm in Greece. Symptoms included depression, diarrhoea, inappetence, weight loss, dehydration and ruffled furs. Using a faecal flotation technique, sick rabbits were found to be moderately to heavily infected with P. ambiguus, Eimeria spp. and C. guttulatus. Treatment with fenbendazole and oregano oil combined with hygiene control measures successfully controlled the infections and resolved clinical symptoms. A faecal flotation method or other reliable diagnostic technique should be used regularly in industrial rabbit farms to screen for gastrointestinal parasitic infections. Early diagnosis and control will help to maintain production levels and, therefore, limit financial losses for the farmer while ensuring animal welfare.
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Jung CA, Torgerson PP, Bolt R, Grimm F, Schädler J, Albini S, Liesegang A. Alternatives to robenidine to control gastrointestinal disorders of weaner rabbits in the field. Vet Anim Sci 2021; 13:100179. [PMID: 34141949 PMCID: PMC8188055 DOI: 10.1016/j.vas.2021.100179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/21/2021] [Accepted: 05/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
High mortality rates and oocyst excretion are found in weaner rabbits. Gastrointestinal disorders have multifactorial origin. Coccidiostats are commonly used in most rabbitries. Improve understanding of the use of alternatives to robenidine in the form of natural supplements.
Gastrointestinal disorders due to Eimeria sp. and E. coli overgrowth cause high mortality in weaner rabbits and the interest in alternatives to coccidiostats is high. This study aimed to investigate the superiority of natural feed additives towards robenidine preserving gastrointestinal health in the field. Rabbits were divided into four groups, Control Group (CG) exclusively supplemented with robenidine, Sainfoin Group (SG) was supplemented with a combination of robenidine and sainfoin, and two additional groups were respectively supplemented with Herb-All COCC-X (garlic; conessi tree) (HG: Herbal Group) and by a combination of Herb-All COCC-X and Klinofeed (clinoptilolite) (MG: Mineral Group). Eimeria sp. (98,40%) and E. coli overgrowth (73.60%) could be confirmed as the main causes for losses. High mortality rates (SG: 30.00% - MG: 47.50%), also in the groups receiving robenidine (SG: 30.00%; CG: 45.00%), reinforced the importance of alternatives in the field. The natural additives of groups SG, HG and MG did not have a significant influence on the weight gains and the oocyst counts in the jejunum/ileum and caecum of slaughter rabbits at the end of the trial, compared to group CG. Significantly higher oocyst shedding in SG (p = 1.4E-03) and HG (p = 1.4E-05) during the trial may be explained by a higher surviving rate of diseased rabbits in those groups, fostered by beneficial effects of the additives, which should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clarissa A Jung
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Paul P Torgerson
- Section of Epidemiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roger Bolt
- Department for livestock husbandry, Strickhof, Eschikon 21, 8315 Lindau, Strickhof, Switzerland
| | - Felix Grimm
- Institute of Parasitology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 266a, Switzerland
| | - Julia Schädler
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Sarah Albini
- National Reference Centre for Poultry and Rabbit Diseases, Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Annette Liesegang
- Institute of Animal Nutrition, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 270, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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Mohamad-Radzi NN, Che-Amat A, Aziz NAA, Babjee SMA, Mazlan M, Hamid NFS, Lekko YM. Preliminary detection of mites and coccidia with their zoonotic potential in meat-farmed rabbits in three districts in Selangor, Malaysia. J Parasit Dis 2020; 45:169-175. [PMID: 33746402 DOI: 10.1007/s12639-020-01291-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Mites infestation and gastrointestinal parasites including coccidia are common problems reported in pets, petting farms and farmed practices. Sarcoptes sp. and Cheyletiella sp. could be a potential zoonosis from rabbits to human. Detection of mites and coccidia with their zoonotic potential in meat-farmed rabbits from three (3) commercial farms in Selangor were investigated. Tape impression, fur pluck, skin scraping and ear swab tests were used for mites detection and faecal samples was used for coccidia examination by using McMaster's technique and the identification of Eimeria spp. was further analysed by sporulation technique. The overall prevalence of mites and Eimeria spp. (oocysts) in rabbits were 51.85% ± 0.38 (standard deviation; S.D.) and 76.47% ± 0.42 respectively. Sarcoptes scabiei was the most frequent mite found (25.92% ± 0.44), followed by Cheyletiella parasitovorax and Psoroptes cuniculi. Nine Eimeria spp. were identified and the oocysts of E. perforans shows the highest prevalence (64.71% ± 3.97) followed by E. exigua, E. coecicola, E. magna, E. flavescens, E. irresidua, E. intestinalis, E. media and E. stiedai. There was a significant difference (p = 0.013) where large-scale farm has a higher prevalence of coccidia than small scale farms apparently due to the excessive stocking density as coccidia are easily transmitted among rabbits through ingestion of sporulated oocysts. In conclusion, mites and coccidia are commonly present in the commercial rabbit farms, thus control and preventive measures should be executed to reduce the incidence of parasites. The zoonotic mites Sarcoptes scabiei and Cheyletiella parasitovorax detected in this study could be regarded as a public health concern especially when handling the rabbit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nurul Nadiah Mohamad-Radzi
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Azlan Che-Amat
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Nor Azlina Abdul Aziz
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Shaik Mohamed Amin Babjee
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Mazlina Mazlan
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Nur Fazila Saulol Hamid
- Department of Veterinary Pathology and Microbiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
| | - Yusuf Madaki Lekko
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), 43400 Serdang, Selangor Malaysia
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INTENSITY OF INVASION IN EMERIOSIS OF RABBITS IN DIFFERENT METHODS OF KEEPING. EUREKA: HEALTH SCIENCES 2020. [DOI: 10.21303/2504-5679.2020.001419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
One of the important problems in raising rabbits is eimeriosis, regardless of the method of maintenance. The disease affects animals of all ages, causing weight loss, feed conversion, morbidity and death.
The aim. Study of the prevalence and diagnosis of rabbit eimeriosis by different housing technology to improve methods of disease control.
Methods. The experiment was conducted during 2017–2019 in farms with different capacities in four regions of Dnipro, Zaporizhia, Kharkiv and Sumy. A total of 20 farms for keeping rabbits of different breeds were surveyed.
Results. Studies of rabbit farms on business and private ones found that the most common infestation was with the following species of eimeria: Eimeria perforans, E magna, E. media, E. irresidua, E. piriforms and E. іntestinalis. It is proved that the extensiveness of rabbit infestation when kept in farms in metal cages, under the conditions of sanitary and hygienic regime and timely disinvasion of premises, was in the range of 42–15 % in autumn-winter period, and 19–6 % in spring-summer. According to the survey of homestead farms, rabbits kept in wooden cages on deep litter, the level of invasion in the autumn-winter period was 100–56 % and in the spring-summer – 70–29 %.
Conclusions. Keeping rabbits in metal cages in compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and timely disinvasion reduces the level of extensiveness of the invasion.
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Pilarczyk B, Tomza-Marciniak A, Pilarczyk R, Januś E, Stanek P, Seremak B, Sablik P. The effect of the sex, age, and breed of farmed rabbits and the choice of management system on the extensity and intensity of Eimeria infection. Vet World 2020; 13:1654-1660. [PMID: 33061241 PMCID: PMC7522946 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.1654-1660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2020] [Accepted: 06/30/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim: The most common causes of loss and diarrhea in rabbit farming are nutritional errors and coccidiosis. The infection can spread rapidly throughout a breeding area, reducing the rabbit population, and causing heavy losses. The aim of the study was to determine the influence of the system of animal management on the extensity and intensity of infection by Eimeria of farmed rabbits, together with the effect of the sex, age, and breed of the rabbits themselves. Materials and Methods: The study included 91 rabbits (Flemish Giant, New Zealand White, French Lope, Vienna Blue, California White, and mixed breed) from eight domestic (small-scale) farms from Poland. The prevalence and intensity of coccidial infection were determined by the Willis-Schlaf and McMaster coprological methods. The species were determined based on oocyst morphology: Their shape, color, form index, the presence or absence of micropyle and cap, and the presence or absence of residual, polar, and Stiedé bodies. Results: Seven species of Eimeria were isolated from the tested rabbits: Eimeria magna, Eimeria media, Eimeria perforans, Eimeria stiedae, Eimeria coecicola, Eimeria exigua, and Eimeria irresidua. Most infections were found to be of relatively low intensity. No significant differences in the extensity of Eimeria protozoan infection were observed with regard to sex. However, rabbit age had a significant influence on the extensity of infection by E. magna and of Eimerian protozoans combined. The greatest extensity was observed in rabbits aged below 6 months. For all species of Eimeria, greater extensity was observed among rabbits kept in groups than individually. The system of rabbit management also had a significant influence on the intensity of infection. Those kept in groups demonstrated a significantly higher mean intensity of infection of E. magna and all Eimeria species combined than those kept individually. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that Eimeria protozoa are a common occurrence on small-scale rabbit farms. As coccidiosis treatment does not always give good results, prevention is very important in the fight against this disease. It is necessary to develop a new preventive paradigm that pays special attention to the factors that promote the spread and development of infection in domestic (small-scale) farms from Poland. For example, it would be recommended to use large, dry, bright rooms with access to the sun, as these are conducive to preventing the occurrence of coccidia infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Pilarczyk
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
| | - A Tomza-Marciniak
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
| | - R Pilarczyk
- Department of Ruminant Science, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
| | - E Januś
- Laboratory for Organic Production of Food of Animal Origin, Institute of Animal Breeding and Biodiversity Conservation, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland
| | - P Stanek
- Laboratory for Organic Production of Food of Animal Origin, Institute of Animal Breeding and Biodiversity Conservation, University of Life Sciences in Lublin, Poland
| | - B Seremak
- Department of Animal Reproduction Biotechnology and Environmental Hygiene, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
| | - P Sablik
- Department of Ruminant Science, Faculty of Biotechnology and Animal Husbandry, West Pomeranian University of Technology, Szczecin, Poland
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Li TS, Zou Y, Ma YT, Ma YY, Chen H, Liang XX, Cong W, Sun XL, Zhu XQ. Molecular characterization of Eimeria spp. and Blastocystis in rabbits in Shandong Province, China. Parasitol Res 2020; 119:1547-1551. [PMID: 32198626 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-020-06652-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Eimeria spp. and Blastocystis are the common parasites that parasitize the intestinal tract of rabbits, which can seriously threaten the health of rabbits and lead to economic losses to the rabbit industry. However, information about the prevalence and transmission of these two parasites in rabbits is limited in China. The objective of this study was to survey the prevalence of Eimeria spp. and Blastocystis in rabbits in Shandong Province. A total of 616 rabbit fecal samples were collected from two cities (Rizhao and Weihai) in Shandong Province, eastern China, and Eimeria spp. and Blastocystis were identified by polymerase chain reaction based on species-specific markers. The prevalence of Eimeria spp. was 20% (123/616) and the Blastocystis prevalence was 0.97% (6/616). Five different Eimeria species (Eimeria intestinalis, E. perforans, E. magna, E. media, and E. irresidua) and the ST4 subtype of Blastocystis were identified in rabbits by sequence analysis. This is the first report of Blastocystis prevalence and subtype ST4 in rabbits in Shandong Province. The findings provide baseline data for the prevention and control of Eimeria spp. and Blastocystis in rabbits in Shandong Province, China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao-Shan Li
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China.,College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Zou
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China.,Heilongjiang Key Laboratory for Animal Disease Control and Pharmaceutical Development, College of Veterinary Medicine, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin, 150030, Heilongjiang Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Ye-Ting Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Yuan-Yuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xia-Xia Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Cong
- Marine College, Shandong University, Weihai, 250100, Shandong Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xiao-Lin Sun
- College of Veterinary Medicine, Gansu Agricultural University, Lanzhou, 730070, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China
| | - Xing-Quan Zhu
- State Key Laboratory of Veterinary Etiological Biology, Key Laboratory of Veterinary Parasitology of Gansu Province, Lanzhou Veterinary Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Lanzhou, 730046, Gansu Province, People's Republic of China.
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Prophylactic and Therapeutic Efficacy of Prebiotic Supplementation against Intestinal Coccidiosis in Rabbits. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:ani9110965. [PMID: 31766204 PMCID: PMC6912293 DOI: 10.3390/ani9110965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Revised: 09/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary There are limitations for using chemical products in meat production. The use of prebiotics to control Eimeria infections in rabbits may be of value. Prebiotics as a prophylaxis resulted in diminishing adverse effects caused by Eimeria spp. through decreasing fecal oocyst counts, retaining body weight, and reducing the number of parasitic stages in the intestinal tissues when compared with the non-supplemented controls. Abstract This study was conducted to investigate the effect of prebiotic supplementation against intestinal coccidiosis in rabbits. Fifty male rabbits aged 35–60 days (1–1.5 kg) were divided into prophylactic and therapeutic experiments (five groups, 10 rabbits per group). Prophylactic experiment had prebiotic supplemented (PS-P), non-supplemented infected control (NI-P), and non-supplemented non-infected control (NN-P) groups. Ten days post-prebiotic supplementation (PPS), rabbits in groups PS-P and NI-P were infected orally with 5.0 × 104 sporulated oocysts of mixed Eimeria species. However, therapeutic experiment had prebiotic supplemented (PS-T) and untreated infected (UI-T) groups of naturally infected rabbits with Eimeria species. A significant reduction in oocyst count per gram feces (OPG) (p ≤ 0.05) was reported in the PS-P (57.33 × 103 ± 2.84) and NI-P (130.83 × 103 ± 43.38) groups during the experiment. Additionally, rabbits in groups (PS-P, 970.33 ± 31.79 g and NI-P, 870.66 ± 6.66 g) showed weight loss after infection. However, a significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in OPG was observed at day seven PPS in the PS-T group (4 × 103 ± 0.00) when compared with the UI-T group (32 × 103 ± 7.54). Furthermore, the PS-T group had a higher body weight than rabbits in the UI-T group. Histopathological findings of the intestinal tissues (duodenum, jejunum, and ileum) showed that the counts of the endogenous stages were significantly higher in the NI-P and UI-T groups than in the prebiotic-supplemented groups (PS-P and PS-T). Supplementation of the prebiotic did not have any adverse effects on biochemical parameters, such as AST, ALT, creatinine, total protein, and total cholesterol. In conclusion, prebiotic supplementation can be used to minimize the adverse effects of intestinal coccidiosis in rabbits, which in turn limits body weight loss, especially for the prophylaxis of coccidial infection.
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Rivero-Perez N, Hernández-Alvarado JL, Valladares-Carranza B, Delgadillo-Ruiz L, Ojeda-Ramírez D, Sosa-Gutiérrez CG, Morales-Ubaldo AL, Vega-Sanchez V, Zaragoza-Bastida A. Salix babylonica L. as a Natural Anticoccidial Alternative in Growing Rabbits. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE : ECAM 2019; 2019:2107231. [PMID: 31558909 PMCID: PMC6735174 DOI: 10.1155/2019/2107231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 07/29/2019] [Accepted: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Coccidiosis in rabbit production is responsible for high morbidity, mortality, and economic losses. The use of natural antimicrobial substances in rabbits represents a promising way to improve their health and production. The aim of the present study was to assess the activity of Salix babylonica hydroalcoholic extract (SBHE) on the elimination of Eimeria spp. in rabbits. The phytochemical compounds and chemical composition of SBHE were determined. The cytotoxicity of SBHE was determined by a microwell assay using Artemia salina. Twenty-five New Zealand rabbits, 28 days old and 872 ± 171 g body weight (BW), were used in a completely randomized design. The rabbits were assigned to five groups of five rabbits, control group (A) received only basal diet (BD), B group received BD + 25 mg/kg BW of SBHE, C group received BD + 50 mg/kg BW of SBHE, D group received BD + 100 mg/kg BW of SBHE, and E group received BD + coccidiostat Baycox® (75 mg/kg body weight) for 28 days. Feces samples were collected at days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28; morphological and morphometric identifications of Eimeria were carried out by the flotation technique and counting of oocysts by the McMaster technique. The rabbits were found naturally infected with Eimeria spp. The SBHE present phytochemicals with anticoccidial activity, and the cytotoxicity test indicate that this extract is nontoxic. This study demonstrates that oral administration of SBHE at 25 and 50 mg/kg BW reduced the release of oocysts per gram of feces. This effect was observed at day 14 and had the most significant effect at day 28 for both concentrations. The results indicate that SBHE could be a natural alternative for the control of coccidiosis in rabbit production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nallely Rivero-Perez
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Jerelly L. Hernández-Alvarado
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Benjamín Valladares-Carranza
- Centro de Investigación y Estudios Avanzados en Salud Animal, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México, Km 15.5 Carretera Panamericana Toluca-Atlacomulco, C.P. 50200 Toluca, Estado de México, Mexico
| | - Lucía Delgadillo-Ruiz
- Unidad Académica de Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad Autónoma de Zacatecas, Zacatecas, Mexico
| | - Deyanira Ojeda-Ramírez
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Carolina G. Sosa-Gutiérrez
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Ana L. Morales-Ubaldo
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Vicente Vega-Sanchez
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
| | - Adrian Zaragoza-Bastida
- Área Académica de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Instituto de Ciencias Agropecuaria, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Hidalgo, Av. Universidad Km 1, Ex-Hda. de Aquetzalpa, C.P. 43600 Tulancingo, Hidalgo, Mexico
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11
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Abstract
The great problem of rabbits breeding today is coccidiosis. An agent of the disease spreads not only through ill animals and is preserved well in the external environment. Oocysts of coccidia live in cells for a long time, so even temporal vacation of an accommodation between placing of rabbits doesn’t prevent infection. It was experimentally proved, that there is a very limited spectrum of means that are coccidiostatics. For preventing and controlling rabbits’ eimeriosis, coccidiostatic means were tested. It is very difficult to annihilate coccidia in vivo and in vitro because of peculiarities of their construction. The aim of the first experiment was to determine the influence of an acidifier Cronocyde L and its components on oocysts of coccidia that allows to determine an optimal composition and concentration of the preparation. At conducting the research, there was used the flotation method of Fulleborn and McMaster one for calculating oocysts. The aim of the second experiment was to determine the influence of the acidifier Cronocyde L standard and Cronocyde L concentrate (1 ml/1l of water) on the intensity of the living mass increment in rabbits. For that there were used clinical, hematological, zootechnical and microscopic methods. Optimal results in the experiment were obtained at using Cronocyde L concentrate and Cronocyde L standard in concentration 0,1 %: maximal growth and health status of rabbits, biochemical indices of blood serum were within the physiological norm. It testifies to the effectiveness of this preparation at eimeriosis of rabbits and to harmlessness for them. The studies, realized under laboratory conditions, prove the effectiveness of the offered means.
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12
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Maziz-Bettahar S, Aissi M, Ainbaziz H, Bachene MS, Zenia S, Ghisani F. Prevalence of coccidian infection in rabbit farms in North Algeria. Vet World 2018; 11:1569-1573. [PMID: 30587890 PMCID: PMC6303494 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2018.1569-1573] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/24/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: The aim of the present study was to determine the prevalence and intensity of rabbit coccidiosis (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in North Algeria. Materials and Methods: During the study, 40 rabbit farms were investigated. The farms are located in the provinces of Tizi Ouzou, Médéa, and Djelfa which distributed, respectively, into three regions: East Tell Atlas Mountains, Central Tell Atlas Mountains, and High Plateaus. The number of oocyst per gram of feces (OPG) was determined by McMaster technique, and the Eimeria species were identified using morphological criteria. Results: In the farms investigated, the prevalence of coccidian infection was estimated to 90% (80.7-99.3%) in rabbits after weaning. The classification of the farms according to their parasite load allowed us to show that 37.5% of the prospective farms have an oocyst excretion between 104 and 5×104 oocysts per gram and 22.5% excrete >5×104 oocysts per gram. Excretion levels by region show that the region of East Tel Atlas Mountains ranks first with 79% of farms with a parasitic load >104 coccidians compared to the regions of Central Tel Atlas Mountains and High Plateaus. In total, eight species of Eimeria were identified from oocyst-positive samples. Mixed infections with four Eimeria species were common. E. magna is the dominant species in comparison with E. media and E. irresidua with respective frequencies of 42.5% and 17.6% and 14.9% (p<0.001). Our results showed that the farms using anticoccidial drugs for their rabbits were low (25%) and the percentage of farms with poor hygienic conditions was 65%. There was a significant association between increased oocysts excretion and control measures of coccidian infection. Conclusion: The study revealed an overall prevalence of 90% in the three Algerian regions. A strong association was observed between Eimeria infection and hygienic status and preventional chemotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samia Maziz-Bettahar
- Clinical Department, Institute of Veterinary Science, University of Blida 1, Ouled Yaich 9000 Blida, Algeria.,Higher National Veterinary School, Laboratory Research of Health and Animal Production, BP161, Rue Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Miriem Aissi
- Higher National Veterinary School, Laboratory Research of Health and Animal Production, BP161, Rue Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Hacina Ainbaziz
- Higher National Veterinary School, Laboratory Research of Health and Animal Production, BP161, Rue Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Mohamed Sadek Bachene
- Higher National Veterinary School, Laboratory Research of Health and Animal Production, BP161, Rue Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers, Algeria.,Department of Nature and Life Sciences, Dr. Yahia Farès University, Médéa, Algeria
| | - Safia Zenia
- Higher National Veterinary School, Laboratory Research of Health and Animal Production, BP161, Rue Issad Abbes, Oued Smar, Algiers, Algeria
| | - Fairouz Ghisani
- Renewable Energy and Environmental, Faculty of Technology, University of Blida 1, Ouled Yaich 9000 Blida, Algeria
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13
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Legendre H, Saratsi K, Voutzourakis N, Saratsis A, Stefanakis A, Gombault P, Hoste H, Gidenne T, Sotiraki S. Coccidiostatic effects of tannin-rich diets in rabbit production. Parasitol Res 2018; 117:3705-3713. [PMID: 30229294 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-018-6069-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
The potential anti-eimerial effect of tannin containing resources such as sainfoin and carob in rabbits was tested on does at pre-weaning and to growing rabbits in their feed. The trial began at parturition (D0), when 24 does and their litters were assigned into three groups. They were fed either with a control (Group CO), a carob (containing 10% carob pods meal) (Group CP) or a sainfoin diet (containing 34% dehydrated sainfoin pellets) (Group SA). All diets were made isoproteic and isoenergetic and also balanced for crude fibre but differed by their tannin content. Weaning occurred at D37, and growing rabbits remained in the same cage until D51. Then, they were transferred to fattening cages until the end of the trial (D104) and slaughtering. Weight gain of young rabbits among the three groups (mean = 31.2 g/day) did not differ statistically. The mortality rates were 10% (SA), 15% (CP) and 20% (CO), respectively, but the differences were not statistically significant. Post-weaning economical feed conversion ratio (FCR) was reduced between rabbits of group SA compared to CO and CP groups. Faecal oocyst count (FOC) in group SA was 60% lower than in CO and CP groups. Areas under the curve (AUCs) calculated between sampling days and FOC, after transfer to fattening cages, was 62% lower in group SA than in CO and CP groups. The main Eimeria species identified (from D59 to D83) was Eimeria magna (53% of oocysts). AUCs for E. magna did not differ according to diet. In conclusion, the diet containing sainfoin reduced oocyst excretion of Eimeria spp. by 60%, and improved the economical FCR.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Legendre
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet-Tolosan, France.,Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece.,UMR 1225 IHAP INRA/ENVT, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France.,Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France
| | - K Saratsi
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - N Voutzourakis
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - A Saratsis
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - A Stefanakis
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - P Gombault
- MULTIFOLIA, 1bis grande Rue, 10380, Viâpre Le Petit, France
| | - H Hoste
- UMR 1225 IHAP INRA/ENVT, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France.,Université de Toulouse, ENVT, 23 Chemin des Capelles, 31076, Toulouse, France
| | - T Gidenne
- GenPhySE, Université de Toulouse, INRA, ENVT, Castanet-Tolosan, France
| | - S Sotiraki
- Laboratory of Parasitology, Veterinary Research Institute, Hellenic Agricultural Organization Demeter, Thermi, 57001, Thessaloniki, Greece.
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14
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Mabrouki S, Chalghoumi R, Abdouli H. Effects of pre-germinated fenugreek seeds inclusion in low-fiber diets on post-weaned rabbits' health status, growth performances, carcass characteristics, and meat chemical composition. Trop Anim Health Prod 2016; 49:459-465. [PMID: 28012066 DOI: 10.1007/s11250-016-1214-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Newly weaned rabbits frequently suffer from digestive disorders particularly when fed low-fiber diets. Fenugreek seeds are rich in dietary fiber and would be suited to moderate such disorders. This study investigated the effect of pre-germinated fenugreek seeds (PGFS) on rabbits' health, digestibility, growth performance, and carcass parameters. Fourteen weaned rabbits were fed one of the following diets: (1) low fiber as negative control (NC), (2) low fiber containing 5% PGFS (F5), (3) low fiber containing 10% PGFS (F10), and (4) adequate fiber as positive control (PC). Each rabbit was reared in an individual cage for 7 weeks. Morbidity and sanitary risk indexes were not different (P > 0.05) between the four diets. Only 20% of the rabbits had a detectable caecal Escherichia Coli (E. coli) count (<105 cfu/g), and all rabbits did not show Eimeria oocysts in their feces. Compared to NC, PC gave a lower (P < 0.05) weight gain and a higher (P < 0.05) feed conversion ratio (FCR). It was associated with a lighter (P < 0.05) chilled carcass weight, and its meat had slightly more moisture and ether extract with less protein. Inclusion of PGFS decreased (P < 0.05) feed intake at the 10% level and, consequently, tended to improve FCR, while no effect was detected on carcass characteristics and meat composition. This study suggested that (1) the low-fiber diet was adequate for both health and growth aspects of post-weaned rabbits, and (2) the inclusion of PGFS was without consequence on rabbits' health status and growth performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabah Mabrouki
- Laboratory of Improvement & Integrated Development of Animal Productivity & Food Resources, Higher School of Agriculture of Mateur, University of Carthage, Tabarka road, 7030, Mateur, Bizerte, Tunisia
| | - Raja Chalghoumi
- Laboratory of Improvement & Integrated Development of Animal Productivity & Food Resources, Higher School of Agriculture of Mateur, University of Carthage, Tabarka road, 7030, Mateur, Bizerte, Tunisia.
| | - Hedi Abdouli
- Laboratory of Improvement & Integrated Development of Animal Productivity & Food Resources, Higher School of Agriculture of Mateur, University of Carthage, Tabarka road, 7030, Mateur, Bizerte, Tunisia
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15
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Okumu PO, Gathumbi PK, Karanja DN, Mande JD, Wanyoike MM, Gachuiri CK, Kiarie N, Mwanza RN, Borter DK. Prevalence, pathology and risk factors for coccidiosis in domestic rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) in selected regions in Kenya. Vet Q 2014; 34:205-10. [PMID: 25322770 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2014.978044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The potential for rabbit production in Kenya is high. However, high morbidity and mortality of domestic rabbits were reported. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to determine the pathology, prevalence and the predisposing factors to coccidiosis in domestic rabbits in selected regions in Kenya. ANIMALS AND METHODS A total of 61 farms keeping rabbits in six different counties were visited in the survey. A total of 2680 live rabbits were examined and 61 rabbits and 302 fecal samples were randomly collected from the farms and examined for coccidian oocysts by ante-mortem and post-mortem methods. The predisposing factors to coccidiosis were assessed through questionnaires and direct observation. Chi square (χ(2)) statistics was used with P values < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS Of the 302 fecal samples, 85% (P < 0.001) contained coccidian oocysts and 2% harbored nematode eggs (Passalurus ambiguous). The overall prevalence of Eimeria spp. infestation was 85.1% in the study area and 90.2% in the individual rabbits, while prevalence of intestinal coccidiosis and hepatic coccidiosis was 29.5% and 11.5%, respectively. Higher counts of coccidian oocysts per gram of feces were recovered in weaners than in growers and adults rabbits (P < 0.001), rabbits that were kept in high density group housing (P < 0.05) and housing with more than two tiers. CONCLUSION This study identified group housing of rabbits of different ages and inadequate control of concurrent infections as the major risk factors associated with coccidiosis in domestic rabbits in Kenya.
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Affiliation(s)
- P O Okumu
- a Department of Veterinary Pathology, Microbiology and Parasitology , University of Nairobi , Nairobi , Kenya
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16
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Occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in slaughter rabbits. Parasitol Res 2013; 113:59-64. [PMID: 24100606 PMCID: PMC3898139 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-013-3625-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 09/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the study was to determine the occurrence of gastrointestinal parasites in slaughter rabbits managed in small scale farms and under industrial farming system. The research material included intestines and livers of rabbits slaughtered between years 2007 and 2011. The rabbit carcasses submitted to parasitological examination had passed the sanitary veterinary inspection as fit for human consumption. The samples were collected in spring and autumn seasons. The studies showed no effect of a rabbit farming system, season of the year, or differences in an invasion type in each year. The parasitological test recognized exclusively mixed infestation diagnosed in 79.56 % of the studied animals. Parasitological evaluation of the rabbit internal organs identified the invasions of coccidia (78.83 %), nematoda (16.42 %), cestoda (0.72 %), and cysticerci Cysticercus pisiformis (4.74 %). Coccidian invasions found in intestines were dominant, and their prevalence reached 56.48 %, while the hepatic coccidian extensity was markedly lower, i.e., 3.34 % of the examined rabbits. Invasions were characterized by low intensity. The studies recognized invasions of nematoda (Obeliscoides cuniculi, Graphidium strigosum, Trichostrongylus sp., Strongyloides sp., Passalurus ambiguus, Trichuris leporis), cestoda (Mosgovoyia pectinata), and cysticerci C. pisiformis.
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