Using Pen-Side Measurable Blood Parameters to Predict or Identify Dystocic Lambing Events

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Animal Science
• Reproductive Biology

Background:

• Dystocia is a major cause of lamb mortality in Australia, impacting animal welfare and economic outcomes.
• Current methods for identifying dystocia risk are limited, necessitating improved diagnostic tools.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential of pen-side analysis technology for detecting blood parameters that predict dystocic labor in sheep.
• To identify specific blood markers indicative of lambing difficulty.

Main Methods:

• Pilot trial involving pen-side analysis of various blood parameters (e.g., glucose, lactate, electrolytes, blood gases, creatinine, haematocrit, haemoglobin).
• Time-series blood sampling from ewes (mid-gestation to 48 hours post-birth) to establish parameter variability.
• Main trial with blood collection at mid-gestation, late gestation, and at/after birth for comprehensive analysis.

Main Results:

• Initial analysis identified creatinine, TCO2, chloride, and calcium as potential markers.
• Key predictors of lambing difficulty included chloride, haematocrit, and haemoglobin (pre-birth); creatinine (at birth); and blood pH and base excess (post-birth).
• Pen-side analysis demonstrated feasibility for rapid assessment of these blood markers.

Conclusions:

• Pen-side analysis of blood markers holds promise for the early identification of sheep at risk of dystocic lambing.
• This approach could facilitate timely interventions, reducing neonatal lamb mortality and improving flock management.
• Further research can refine the use of these markers for enhanced reproductive efficiency in sheep.