Loss evaluation of lambs and kids through slaughtering of pregnant females

Abstract

Loss of lambs and kids through slaughtering of pregnant ewes and goats at Garoua and Maroua abattoirs, Cameroon, was evaluated between 1993 and 1995. Out of 3150 goats and 1757 ewes slaughtered, 1216 goats (38.6 %) and 1040 ewes (59.2 %) were pregnant. Losses were estimated at 0.6 kid and 1 lamb per slaughtered female respectively. These losses have consequential economic impacts at a time when meat shortage is growing. Urgent measures should be taken to reduce the magnitude of the problem. However, efficient preventive measures might be complicated if the socio- economic context, still based on subsistence economy and small ruminant extensive husbandry, remains prevalent.