Haemato-biochemical profile of ewes synchronized with vaginal sponges

The present study was undertaken to study the haemato-biochemical profile of ewes synchronized with vaginal sponges. A total of 120 postpartum, parous and healthy ewes aged between 2 and 5 years were selected and divided into five groups. The ewes were synchronized with vaginal sponges containing 30 mg of flurogestone acetate. Gr I ewes were considered as untreated control. Ewes in Gr II (VS4) were treated with intra-vaginal sponges and were left in place for 12 days followed by intramuscular injection of 400 IU of pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) at the time of sponge removal. Ewes in Gr III (VS6) were treated with vaginal sponge and 600 IU of PMSG was given intramuscularly at the time of removal of sponge. Ewes in Gr IV (VS4h) were treated as in Gr II except 200 IU of human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG) injection at the time of mating. Ewes in GrV (VS6h) were treated as in Gr III except 200 IU of HCG injection at the time of mating. There was no significant difference observed in erythrocyte count during breeding and non-breeding seasons in the ewes treated with vaginal sponges. The haemoglobin levels were higher in ewes treated with vaginal sponges during breeding season compared to non-breeding season. The serum glucose levels were significantly high (P<0.01) in breeding season than non-breeding season. The study revealed that haemato-biochemical profiles were not affected in ewes synchronized with vaginal sponges.