Induction of parturition in Iraqi buffaloes

The present study was conducted on 43 pregnant buffaloes with an average of 290-295 days gestation period according to their breeding dates in different areas of Baghdad province from 2006-2011, this ages ranged from 3-4 years. The buffaloes were divided into four groups randomly according to the programs of their treatment .1st group (11buffaloes) were injected with 750μg (3ml) of estrumate intramuscular (IM) in one dose. The 2nd group (12 buffaloes) injected with 40 mg of dexamethasone (IM) in one dose also. The 3rd group (10 buffaloes) injected with 15 mg of estradiol benzoate (IM). The 4th group injected with estrumate 750μg +dexamethasone 40 mg (IM) in the same time. The results showed that the responsive buffaloes were 9 (81.8%), 11 (91.6%), 9 (90%) and 10 (100%) in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th groups respectively. The results showed a significant difference between (p 0.01) the 4th group in comparison with 1,2,3 groups. The duration between initiation of treatment to the induction of parturition showed a significant difference between (p 0.01) 2nd group as compared with 1,3,4 groups. Retention of fetal membranes were recorded in 25.54% of animals and the occurrence of dystocia was 17.94%. The viability of newborn (calves) was 94.8% as compared with dead calves 5.2%. It was concluded that the use of PGF2α or dexamethasone alone or combination was safe and effective for induction of calving.