Hematology, Reproductive Hormonal Level and Conception Rate in Synchronized Indigenous Cows during Artificial Insemination Scheme in Kwara State, Nigeria
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Date
2025-03-31
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
AJOL
Abstract
Genetic improvement of indigenous cattle breeds through artificial insemination (AI) with exotic
semen will aid production system intensification and solve herders-crop farmers’ conflict in Nigeria. Successful AI,
however, depends on efficient estrous synchronization preparing the animal’s hormonal balance required for
fertilization. Hence, the objective of this paper was to assess the hematology, reproductive hormonal level and
conception rate in synchronized 33 White Fulani and 18 Gudali indigenous cows during artificial insemination (AI)
scheme in Kwara State, Nigeria using standard methods. Successful conception was called using transrectal palpation
and threshhold of progesterone post-insemination. Data obtained show that there was significant (p < 0.05) breed
effect on neutrophils and lymphocytes (indicating better stress tolerance in Gudali than White Fulani) and farm
location difference in white blood cells, neutrophils, monocytes, hemoglobin, and packed cell volume prior to
synchronization. However, all hematological values were subsequently found within reference values for cow postsynchronization. Post-synchronized elevated LH, reduced FSH and progesterone, plus subsequent progesterone surge
16 weeks post-insemination as well as mean conception rate of 82.75% are indicative of reproductive success.
Consequently, Fixed Time AI with 3 consecutive injection of 2ml chloprostenol was recommended for estrous
synchronization in artificial insemination in Nigerian indigenous cattle.