[Feasibility of detecting steroid hormones in cattle feces for monitoring ovarian function]

Faecal material from four non pregnant cows was withdrawn in two-day intervalls during a four-week period. At the same time bloodsamples were taken to monitor the ovarian function. Clinical and ultrasonographical examinations were recorded in parallel. To look for the stability of the faecal steroid analogues for P4 (Progesterone) and E2 (Estradiol-17 beta) faecal material was stored at 37 degrees C and samples from that analyzed in two-day intervals. The P4 (Progesterone)-analogues values in the faeces showed good correlation to cycling ovarian functions as monitored by bloodlevels from P4, clinical examination and ultrasonography. In contrast the E2-analogues values showed no cycling pattern. One cow however showed ovarian cysts which was monitored in the P4 values for blood and faeces. Concerning the stability of the steroid analogues it could be demonstrated that the P4-values show a steady decrease with minimum values of 20 ng/g dry material. During the first four days after sampling reliable values for clinical interpretations can be found. The concentrations for E2 are very inconstant and so far not of interest. The investigation shows that the faecal steroid P4 can be used for monitoring ovarian function. It has to be analyzed within four days after sampling when stored at room temperature.