ORIGINAL PAPER
Effects of experimental subclinical fasciolosis
on the feeding behaviour of sheep
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1
Department of Animal Pathology (Animal Health), University of León,
24071 León, Spain
2
Department of Physiology, Pharmacology and Toxicology,
University of León,
24071 León, Spain
Publication date: 1996-04-12
Corresponding author
I. Ferre
Estación Agricola Experimental-CSIC, Apdo. 788, 24080 León,
Spain
J. Anim. Feed Sci. 1996;5(2):135-145
KEYWORDS
ABSTRACT
Ten female Churra breed sheep were experimentally infected with 25 Fasciola hepatica
metacercariae daily during six days. The animals were offered pelleted lucerne and water ad libitum.
Feed and water intake was automatically recorded by computer monitoring of electronic balances.
Liver damage caused by flukes was ascertained by measuring the activities of aspartate amino
transferase, glutamate dehydrogenase and gamma-glutamyl transferase. Serum bile acids and
glucose concentrations were also measured. Maximum plasma enzyme values were found at 10 weeks
post infection. Plasma bile acid concentration increased from six to 13 weeks post infection.
Glycaemia was decreased from the fourth week post infection until the end of the experiment. Total
daily food intake decreased maximally between six and 12 weeks post infection. The number of meals
per day and time spent eating and drinking decreased along the experimental infection. The rate of
eating and drinking increased progressively. An association between anorexia and liver damage is
suggested.