Prevalence of Blood Protozoa and Impact of Chemotherapy in Exotic Cattle, With Special Reference to Haematological Parameters

This study investigated the prevalence of haemoprotozoan infections in exotic cattle, their effects on Haematological parameters, and the comparative efficacy of different therapeutic agents. A total of 200 blood samples were collected from exotic cattle on private farms in Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, between April 13 and September 13, 2024. Samples were examined microscopically using Giemsa stain, and the haematological parameters [red blood cell count (RBCs), white blood cell count (WBCs), platelet counts, packed cell volume (PCV), and haemoglobin concentration (Hb) concentration] were determined with a veterinary haematology analyzer. Haemoprotozoan-positive cattle were divided into four groups: Group A (Anaplasma spp.), Group B (Anaplasma spp. + Babesia spp.), Group C (Babesia spp.), and Group D (Theileria spp.). Group A and B were treated with imidocarb dipropionate (2.5 mL/100 kg), Group C with diminazine aceturate (10 mL/300 kg), and Group D with buparvaquone (1 mL/20 kg). Overall prevalence of haemoprotozoan infection was 21.5%, including Anaplasmosis (7%), Babesiosis (5.5%), mixed infection of Anaplasma spp. + Babesia spp. (4.5%), and Theileriosis (4.5%). Therapeutic trials indicated highest efficacy against Babesiosis (81.8%), followed by Theileriosis (77.7%), mixed infection (77.7%), and Anaplasmosis (71.4%). Haematological analysis showed significant post-treatment improvement in RBC counts in Groups A, C, and D at day 7. Additionally, the study evaluated tick infestation rates in relation to different flooring types to identify possible predisposing factors for haemoprotozoan infections. In conclusion, haemoprotozoan infections are prevalent in exotic cattle in Dera Ismail Khan, adversely affecting Haematological values. Imidocarb dipropionate, diminazine aceturate, and buparvaquone demonstrated effective therapeutic efficacy under local field conditions and can be recommended for effective management of these infections.