Effect of body condition score on biochemical parameters and hormonal profiles during the mating period in Ouled Djellal ewes in arid zone

Abstract

This study aims to evaluate the effect of body condition score (BCS) on hormonal profiles and to reveal their influence on the blood metabolites in Ouled Djellal ewes during the mating period. The experiment was conducted on thirty, clinically healthy and non-pregnant, Ouled Djellal ewes which have been kept into two groups according to their body condition score (Group I: BCS < 2.50 units; n = 13, Group II: BCS > 2.50 units; n = 17). In both groups, oestrus was synchronized using hormonal patterns then the ewes were left to be naturally inseminated. Blood samples were collected at the time of the sponge removal. Plasma concentrations of glucose, triglycerides, cholesterol, total protein, albumin, creatinine, urea, triiodothyronine, thyroxine and Progesterone were recorded. The plasma level of triglycerides and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) increase significantly (P < 0.01) in group II. Progesterone concentrations were similar (P ≥ 0.05) in both groups at mating period, although we recorded higher rate in group I. Therefore, we conclude that body condition score has a significant impact on some hormone profiles and blood parameters during the mating period.

Clinical, Haematological, Biochemical Alterations, and Potential Risk Factors Associated with Ill-Thrift in Goats Raised at Smallholder Farms in Egypt

“…While Widiyono et al [38] observed minimal changes in the serum albumin levels of female Kacang goats with varying BCS, the findings of the current study indicate a significant decrease in serum albumin of the emaciated group relative to the control group. Titaouine et al's findings [41] confirmed the finding of the present study, as the serum albumin levels were notably lower in Ouled Djellal ewes with a BCS under 2.5 compared to those with a BCS over 2.5. Infections of animal with different diseases or unbalanced rations can cause decreased blood albumin levels, whereas chronic infections, inflammation, or liver fluke infestations can lead to low serum albumin and high globulin levels in some animals [42].…”

“…Sitaresmi et al's investigation on Saanen goats, however, revealed that animals with a BCS of 2 had significantly lower blood glucose levels than goats with a greater BCS [45]. Meanwhile, Titaouine et al observed a significant increase in glucose levels in ewes under BCS of 2.5 compared to those with higher BCS, linking this to low blood insulin levels in emaciated goats with high energy demands [41].…”

Exploratory Study on the Relationship Between Age, Reproductive Stage, Body Condition Score, and Liver Biochemical Profiles in Rembi Breed Ewes

“…) in tropical ewes,Titaouine et al (2022), andBoudebza et al (2020) in Ouled Djellal ewes. However,Caldeira et al (2007) reported a significant effect of body condition score in albumin and total protein, and Aiche et al(2023) demonstrated a significant impact of body condition score on GGT levels in Rembi breed sheep.…”