Archive | 2021
The effect of twinship on selected hematological and biochemical parameters in late pregnant ewes
Abstract
Sheep and sheep products are economically valuable all over the world, including Turkey. They are a significant source of animal protein, especially in human nutrition (2). Long-tailed Kıvırcık is a native Turkish sheep breed that accounts for 6.8% of the total sheep population in Turkey. This breed, which is widely raised in the Thrace, Marmara, and Aegean regions of Turkey, is also grown in Bulgaria and Greece, where they are known as Traki (8). During pregnancy in sheep, the nutritional requirements of the fetus and consequently the mother increase. Since 70-80% of fetal growth occurs towards the end of pregnancy, the energy needs of late pregnant ewes are significantly greater (41). During pregnancy, maternal tissues contribute to providing the energy required by the fetus. This situation causes changes in the mother’s biochemical parameters, such as glucose, cholesterol, and total protein. Through the examination and evaluation of these parameters, abnormalities in metabolism can be detected earlier. Thus, appropriate corrections can be made to overcome metabolic diseases that may occur during pregnancy (1, 14). Blood is one of the most crucial body fluids, and the hematological profile is a significant indicator of animal health and production. The examination of blood parameters can be used to diagnose diseases of the hemopoietic system, general metabolic disorders, as well as diseases of other systems and organs (7). The breeding period, sex, age, and season significantly influence blood parameters of farm animals. It has been reported that during pregnancy, one of physiological periods in ewes, hematological changes occur (27). These factors should therefore be considered when interpreting blood parameters (45). The number of lambs born per ewe is a significant factor affecting profitability in sheep production. Although twin pregnancy in ewes is desirable, their health status during and after gestation also has to be considered. There are very few studies on how hematological and biochemical parameters, which are The effect of twinship on selected hematological and biochemical parameters in late pregnant ewes