Experimental coccidiosis in goats. 2. Effect of parasitism on nutritional balances and some blood parameters.

Experimental infection of goats with three species of coccidia (E. ninakohlyakimovae, E. arloingi, E. christenseni) caused a significant modification in apparent digestibility of dry matter, organic matter and crude fibre but only mild clinical effects. Nitrogen balance became negative and there was a decrease in serum albumin and glucose concentration and packed cell volume. These modifications may be partially explained by the fall of dry matter intake, the change in dry matter content of faeces and the disturbances of intestinal functions.