INCIDENCE OF FOETAL WASTAGE IN CATTLE SLAUGHTERED AT THE BAUHI ABATTOIR, BAUHI STATE

Abstract

A total of 10,201 foetuses were wasted within a seven year period studied (2011 – 2017). Majority of the foetuses encountered were in 2013 (1,848) followed by 2011(1,818). The year 2016 had the lowest rate of foetal wastage. Monthly increase at the abattoir arise in the months of September, July, January and December 922, 929, 950 and 968 respectively with the highest peak in June1013 throughout the study period. The late rainy season (July-September) had the highest rate of foetal wastage while the late dry season had the lowest. The results indicated a high level of slaughtering of pregnant cows in the abattoir studied. Therefore concerted efforts like routine veterinary checks and interventions among trade animals is needed in order to reduce the high level of foetal wastage in the country. Also, livestock owners should be educated on the seasonal breeding patterns of cattle in order to avoid selling cows during the calving season. It also gave insight to need for strategic planning and decision-making on animal food security in Bauchi State.