Effect of Different Estrus Synchronization Protocols on Some Reproductive Traits in Nubian Goats

Abstract

The effect of estrus synchronization protocol on the
conception rates and actual kidding percentage together with litter size,
birth weight, twinning rates, sex of kids and sex ratio in Nubian goats
were investigated. Eighteen Nubian goats were divided into three equal
groups. The animals in group one were treated with vaginal sponges
(VSP) impregnated with 45 mg flurogestone acetate (FGA) for 18 days,
followed by a single dose of 400 i.u. of pregnant mare serum
gonadotrophin (PMSG) upon removal of the VSP. The second group was
subjected to a double injects of 7.5 mg prostaglandin (PGF2α), given
eleven days apart. For the third group, a vasectomies buck was suddenly
introduced and kept with the goats for 15 days to initiate estrus. Intact
bucks were used to detect heat and mate with goats in the three groups.
Does treated with PGF2α and those subjected to the buck effect showed
significantly higher pregnancy rates (66.6%) than those treated with
VSP+ PMSG. (33.3%). However, the protocols of synchronization had no
effect on the kidding rates, litter size and birth weight. The type of birth
comprised both singletons and twins, but none of the three groups