Estrus and ovulation in gilts fed a synthetic progestogen

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Reproduction
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Estrus control is crucial for efficient swine reproduction.
• Synthetic progestogens are widely used for estrus synchronization in gilts.
• Understanding effective dosages is key for optimizing reproductive management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine effective doses of allyl trenbolone (AT) for estrus and ovulation control in gilts.
• To evaluate the impact of AT on estrus synchronization and ovulation rates.
• To assess potential side effects of AT treatment in gilts.

Main Methods:

• Sexually mature gilts were assigned to a control group or one of five AT treatment groups (10.0-20.0 mg/head/day for 18 days).
• Estrus and ovulation were monitored post-treatment.
• Ovarian morphology was assessed via laparotomy.
• Estrus synchronization and ovulation rates were compared between groups.

Main Results:

• Allyl trenbolone (AT) suppressed estrus in all treated gilts during the treatment period.
• Estrus was effectively synchronized, with 48 of 50 gilts showing estrus within 4.5 days of AT withdrawal.
• Ovulation rates in treated gilts were comparable to the control group.
• A slight increase in cystic follicles was the only observed potential side effect.

Conclusions:

• Allyl trenbolone (AT) is effective for synchronizing estrus in gilts.
• The tested dosages of AT do not negatively affect ovulation rates.
• AT presents a viable option for estrus control in swine, with minimal adverse effects.