Prevalence of Ectoparasites of Ruminants in Muzaffarabad District, Azad Jammu and Kashmir

This study was conducted to determine prevalence of ectoparasites of ruminants of Muzaffarabad District, AJK. Samples were collected from the cattle of Tehsil and district Muzaffarabad of Azad Kashmir. The research activities were carried out during the period from July 2015 to December, 2015. In current study a total of 100 ruminants including 34 buffalos, 41 goats, 9 sheep and 16 cows were randomly selected for ectoparasitic infestation. Animals both the indigenous and cross bred were selected randomly. Cattle were carefully examined through handy assessment, palpation and parting the hairs beside their normal direction for the exposure of ectoparasites. Samples were picked from various organs of the body of the individual cattle via hand picking. Forceps was used during collection of samples at the point of attachment of ticks in the body of cattle to protect normal body organs such as the parts of mouth and appendages of the ectoparasites. Before assemblage of samples relevant data such as age, sex, nutritional condition, breed was recorded. Samples were well-maintained in 70% alcohol, uncontaminated, well-stopper vials made up of glass. Vials were categorized accurately. The seasonal ectoparasitic infestation during the study was higher in summer season than winter. Monthly highest prevalence of ectoparasites was during July and lowest during December. The highest prevalence recorded in month of July that was 41%. In August prevalence rate was 32%, 28% in September, 23% in October, 16% in November and 7% was recorded in December. The present study revealed that widespread occurrence of ectoparasites in ruminant in study area, and major ectoparasites identified were ticks, lice and mites. It is concluded that ectoparasites are prevalent in the cattle causing losses to cattle health and economy.