Abstract

This study examined the clinical response of 120 Anak broiler birds to inclusion of Cassia alata aqueous extract at different levels in their water (0, 5, 10 and 15 ml/L). The birds were allotted to four treatments of 10 birds each with three replicates. They were fed ad libitum and data were collected on haematological and serum parameters (packed cell volume, haemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, total protein, urea concentration). There were significant differences (p<0.05) in all the haematological parameters across the treatments. Haematological results indicated that the health status of the birds were normal. Serum biochemistry result shows significant variation (p<0.05) across the treatments. Total protein values across the treatments shows inefficient nutrient utilization. Urea values were significantly higher (p<0.05) in birds placed on C. alata extract, this indicates renal damage in the birds. Serum electrolytes shows significant differences (p<0.05) across the treatments with potassium ion showing significantly higher values above the physiological range indicating kidney failure.

Key words: Cassia alata, broiler, aqueous extract, kidney.