The objective of the present study was to investigate the potential benefits of supplementing Moringa oleifera leaves on various aspects of Baladi goat health and productivity under arid conditions in Siwa Oasis. Specifically, the study aimed to assess the effects on hematological and biochemical parameters, milk production and composition, and reproduction. A total of 30 healthy Baladi goats, with an average weight of 19.70 ± 0.36 kg, were randomly assigned to two experimental groups: the control (C) group, which received a basal diet without Moringa oleifera leaves, and the treatment (T) group, which received the basal diet supplemented with Moringa oleifera leaves at a rate of 50 grams/doe/day throughout the experimental period. The findings revealed that feeding goats with Moringa oleifera leaves led to increased milk productivity compared to the control group. Specifically, milk yield and all milk components, except for ash, were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the Moringa-treated group. Moreover, the Moringa group exhibited significantly higher levels of Hb concentration, RBC, PCV, and MCV compared to the control group. However, there were no significant differences in MCH and MCHC between the two groups. Interestingly, the control group showed a significant increase in WBC compared to the Moringa group. In terms of biochemical parameters, the results demonstrated a decrease in cholesterol and urea concentrations in Baladi goats fed with Moringa oleifera leaves. Conversely, the Moringa group exhibited significantly higher levels of serum total protein, glucose, and albumin compared to the control group. Furthermore, supplementation with Moringa oleifera leaves significantly improved kidding and weaning rates, as well as litter size in Baladi goats and decrease of mortality rates. Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating Moringa oleifera leaves into the diets of Baladi goats can enhance reproductive performance, milk production and composition, without any negative effects on the haemato-biochemical profile.
Key words: Moringa oleifera leaves, blood haematology, blood biochemical, milk yield and composition, reproductive performance
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