Influence of Age on Haematology, Serum Biochemistry and Lipid Profile of ‎Stallions in Ilorin, Nigeria

This study determined the influence of age on haematological and serum biochemical parameters and lipid profiles of stallions in Ilorin, Nigeria. Blood samples of 50 (3-16 years of age) apparently healthy stallions were collected from different stables within Ilorin metropolis, and haematological and serum biochemical parameters were determined according to standard procedures. The stallions were grouped into three: <5 years (n=12), 6-11 years (n=33) and >11 years (n=5). The values obtained were subjected to a one-way ANOVA (p<0.05) using Tukey’s multiple comparison test as post test to determine the significant differences in the haematological and serum biochemical parameters in relation to age differences. Stallions with less than 5 years of age showed significant (p< 0.001) increase in PCV, red blood cell and haemoglobin counts when compared with stallions aged 6-11 years and above 11 years. Serum albumin and triglycerides for the <5 years of age stallion significantly reduced and increased respectively when compared to the stallions aged 6-11 years and above 11 years. There was no significant difference in cholesterol, white blood cell, neutrophils and lymphocytes counts. Age influences haematological and serum biochemical parameters in stallions. This is more noticeable in stallions aged five years and below. The findings from this study will guide clinicians in interpretations of haematological and serum biochemical values in different age group of stallions.