Assessment of nutritional status of cattle in Rwanda: A case of Huye District

Animal feeding is a major factor in the success of cattle farming especially in Rwanda where livestock remains a pillar of the national economy. The study was designed to assess the nutritional status of cattle in the District of Huye through biochemical parameters that can be measured. We conducted the study during the period of June until August 2012.

Glucose, total protein, calcium, urea and cholesterol were measured in a sample of 100 cattle randomly selected in the said District. The energy parameters (glucose and cholesterol) showed values in the range of physiological values considered with 2.83 + 0.53 mmol /l and 2.21+ 1.15 mmol /l respectively. Regarding the nitrogen parameters (urea and total protein), the study showed they were below physiological values of 2.55 + 1.63 mmol /l for urea and 44.61 + 17.39 g /l for total protein. The only mineral parameter measured (calcium) showed no change over the physiological range, with 2.4 + 0.87 mmol /l. In conclusion, this situation reflects the state of undernourishment in the study area which can be detrimental to productivity and health of cattle.