Plasma Glucose Regulation During Pregnancy in Sahel Goats Managed in Maiduguri, Borno State

Pregnancy is a physiologically demanding period characterised by significant metabolic adjustments, particularly in glucose homeostasis, which is critical for foetal development and maternal health. In Sahel goats maintained under semi-intensive management in Maiduguri, Borno State, in the North East geopolitical zone, nutritional challenges during dry seasons can exacerbate metabolic stress in late gestation. This study monitored plasma glucose concentrations in Sahel does across three reproductive stages: early pregnancy (days 30 to 60), mid pregnancy (days 61 to 100), and late pregnancy (days 101 to 145). Forty pregnant does were enrolled, with blood samples collected fortnightly from the jugular vein. Glucose was measured using a validated enzymatic colorimetric kit adapted for veterinary use. Results showed a progressive decline in mean plasma glucose from 4.3 mmol/L in early pregnancy to 3.1 mmol/L in late gestation. Does carrying twins had significantly lower glucose levels compared with those carrying singles from mid pregnancy onwards. Two does in late gestation showed clinical signs consistent with pregnancy toxaemia. Glucose supplementation via propylene glycol drenching was initiated for at-risk animals. Body condition score correlated positively with plasma glucose. These findings highlight the need for nutritional management strategies tailored to reproductive status in Sahel goats in the Lake Chad Basin region, where feed resources are seasonally scarce. Keywords: plasma glucose, pregnancy, Sahel goats, Maiduguri, pregnancy toxaemia.