Effects of Breed, Diet and Sex on Thermo-physiology of Nigerian Goats

The understanding of complex interplay between breed, diet and sex on thermo-physiology is crucial for developing effective strategies to manage heat stress in Nigerian goat production. This experiment was conducted to study the effects of breed, diet, sex and their interactions on thermo-physiology response of Nigerian goats. A total of 36 weaner goats of two breeds (West African dwarf, n = 18; 9 males + 9 females) and Red Sokoto goats, n = 18; 9 males + 9 females) of about 3–4 months of age were used for the experiment. A 2×3×2 factorial experiment comprising 2 breeds, 3 diets groups and 2 sexes in a completely randomized design. Data collected were the rectal temperature, pulse rate, respiratory rate, maximum and minimum ambient temperature (°C) and relative humidity (%) and the average values were used to calculate temperature-humidity index and the heat stress index was also calculated. The fixed and interaction effects of data collected were analysed using Statistix Analytical software version 8.0 while excel package was used for graphical representation of the temperature-humidity index and significant means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. The effect of breed on thermo-physiological indices of goats revealed that breed had significant (P < 0.05) effect on pulse rate and respiratory rate. Diet showed significant (P < 0.05) effect on rectal temperature (RT), pulse rate and respiratory rate. Male goats had higher (P < 0.05) thermo-physiology indices compared to females. It can be concluded that the experimental goats experienced little or moderate heat stress, which is crucial for maintaining productivity, growth, and overall well-being.