Hematology, reproductive hormonal level and conception rate in synchronized indigenous cows during artificial insemination scheme in Kwara State, Nigeria”

Abstract

Background and Objectives Improving genetic potential of indigenous cattle breeds through artificial insemination (AI) with exotic semen will aid intensification of production system and solve herders-crop farmers’ conflict in Nigeria. Successful AI, however, largely depends on efficient estrous synchronization protocol which prepares the hormonal balance in animals required for fertilization. The study aimed to assess reproductive success of the estrous synchronization protocol. Methodology Fifty-one cows including 33 White Fulani and 18 Gudali were evaluated in situ on 4 farm locations in a 2 x 4 factorial experiment. Each cow was synchronized by intramuscullarly injecting 2ml Synchromate®, a synthetic prostaglandin analogue containing active ingredient chloprostenol for 3 consecutive times on days 0, 11 and 17. They were subsequently inseminated after 72 hours in a fixed timed AI (FTAI). Blood were collected through jugular venupuncture. Data on hematology, Estrogen (E2), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), Leutenizing Hormone (LH), and progesterone (P4) were collected before and after estrous synchronization and conception rate was estimated and analysed using Two–way analsis of variance module of SPSS. Successful conception was called using the threshhold of progesterone after insemination. Main Reults There was significant (p < 0.05) breed effect on neutrophils and lymphocytes (indicating better stress tolerance in Gudali relative to White Fulani) and farm location difference in white blood cells, neutrophils, monocytes, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume before synchronization. However, all hematological values were within normal reference range for cow and subsequently normalised after synchronization. Consequent upon estrous synchronization, increase in LH, reduction in FSH and P4, plus subsequent increase in progesterone 16 weeks after insemination and mean conception rate of 82.75% indicate reproductive success. Conclusions In conclusion, FTAI with 3 consecutive injection of 2ml chloprostenol resulted in high conception rate and therefore recommended as effective estrous synchronization protocol for artificial insemination in Nigerian indigenous cattle.