Period and Repeatability of Blood Sampling in Reared Grasscutter (Thryonomys Swinderianus Temminck. 1827) in Benin

The present study aims to clarify the period and repeatability of blood sampling in subadult grasscutters to promote its health monitoring through blood tests. Eight subadult male grasscutters aged 6 of months from Benin were used. Through blood samples, haematological and biochemical parameters were determined. Lymphocytes were increased more in the morning compared in the evening. In contrast, glucose, total protein and triglycerides were lower in 6 hours compared to 18 hours. For repeatability, MCH and MCHC showed high values in 3 ml compared to 6 ml. Total protein, total cholesterol, transaminase (GPT) and phosphorus were lower for 6 ml compared to 3 ml that is contrary to glucose. The study showed that there are many changes in haematological and biochemical parameters according to the period and repeatability of blood sampling in reared subadult grasscutters. For this purpose, the period of blood sampling which is the most suitable is the morning. In addition, subadult grasscutters can be taken more than once for a blood volume of 3 ml which is not the case for blood volume 6ml.