Characterization of Oestrous Induction Response, Oestrous Duration, Fecundity and Fertility in Awassi Ewes During the Non‐breeding Season Utilizing both CIDR and Intravaginal Sponge Treatments

Abstract

The aim of this study was to investigate characterization of oestrous response, onset of induced oestrus, oestrous duration, fecundity and fertility in Awassi ewes treatment with intravaginal sponges and Controlled Intravaginal Drug Release (CIDR) devices in combination with pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) under local environmental conditions during the non-breeding season. A total of 62 ewes were divided into three groups. Group CIDR (n = 20) was treated with CIDR devices for 12 days and 400 IU PMSG was injected upon removal of the CIDR. For ewes in Group Sponge (SP) (n = 24), 30 mg fluorogestone acetate was administered to the sheep for 12 days and 400 IU PMSG was injected upon withdrawal of the sponge. Group Control (CON) (n = 18) served as a control group and received no treatment. Adult, intact and sexually experienced Awassi rams were introduced to all groups at the time when the intravaginal devices were removed. There were no significant differences in terms of oestrous response (CIDR: 90%, SP: 87.5%), time to onset of oestrus and duration of induced oestrus between the CIDR and SP groups. The oestrous response of treatment groups was significantly greater (p < 0.05) than in the control ewes. There were no significant differences in pregnancy (CIDR: 70%, SP: 70.8%), lambing (CIDR: 85%, SP: 79.2%) and fecundity rates between ewes treated with CIDR and those treated with sponges. However, pregnancy and lambing rates were significantly (p < 0.05) higher in ewes treated with CIDR or sponges when compared with those in the control group. It was concluded that it is possible to induce fertile oestrus, successful pregnancy and lambing with the treatment of either CIDR or intravaginal sponge in combination with PMSG in Awassi ewes during the non-breeding season.

Short communication: Estrus synchronization using progestogens or cloprostenol in tropical hair sheep

“…For example, Arroyo-Ledezma et al (2013) used CIDR or PGF2 Alpha protocols in hair sheep did not find differences in estrus presentation, but ET-OE interval was different (P≤0.05). Previous studies (Ozyurtlu, et al 2010) have reported shorter estrus duration using progestogens in estrus synchronization than those reported in this trial. In ewes treated with Cloprostenol, duration of estrus was more homogenous according to the variation coefficient (15.19 and 4.46 % for progestogen and Cloprostenol).…”

Awassi sheep reproduction and milk production: review

“…The average body weight of adult Awassi ewe is 45-55 kg while the ram weighs 60-90 kg (Degen and Benjamin 2003;Ozyurtlu et al 2010). The body is covered with long coarse wool of creamy white color except for the face.…”

“…Factors that can affect the reproductive activity in sheep include season, photoperiod, breed, age, nutrition, diseases, stress, management, environment, and male factors (Amer and Hazzaa 2009;Ozyurtlu et al 2010).…”

Estrus synchronization in sheep with synthetic progestagens

“…Additionally the system can be effectively used even in non cycling animals. However successful protocols must not only provide tight synchrony of estrus but also have acceptable fertility rates (Godfrey et al 1997;khan et al 2006;Ozyurtlu et al 2008). Synthetic progestins for estrus induction and synchronization are commercially available either as ear implants or intravaginal devices.…”