Preliminary Evaluation of the Therapeutic Effects of Neem Leaf Extract and Ivermectin in West African Dwarf Goats with Clinical Mange

This study investigates the therapeutic potential of neem (Azadirachta indica) extract as a topical remedy for mange in West African Dwarf (WAD) goats, a breed commonly raised in Southern Nigeria and are affected by mange, which negatively impacts animal welfare and productivity. Twelve mange-infected goats were randomly assigned to three treatment groups: T۱ (۱۰ ml ivermectin pour-on), T۲ (۵ ml neem extract + ۵ ml ivermectin), and T۳ (۱۰ ml neem extract). Treatments were administered topically over ۱۴ day period.  Clinical evaluations included skin scrapings, red blood cell (RBC), white blood cell (WBC) and serum biochemical indices.  Phytochemical analysis of the neem extract revealed notable concentrations of alkaloids, saponins, and phenols.  Post-treatment observations showed improvement in skin condition across all groups. Notably, T۲ goats exhibited significant increases in RBC and WBC counts (p < ۰.۰۵). Differences in serum biochemical indices, particularly potassium, were also noted. The findings indicate that neem extract, can serve as an effective alternative or adjunct treatment to ivermectin for mange control in WAD goats. Its use may be particularly beneficial in local environments with poor accesibility to conventional drugs, contributing to improve animal health and production outcomes.

Keywords:

Neem leaf , Ivermectin , Mange , West African Dwarf goats , Topical , Food security