Introduction to infertility in the domestic animals
9781774698372
255 pages
Arcler Education Inc
Overview
Reproduction is a vital component in the animal husbandry practices. Infertility is a significant concern in domestic animals, as it can impact breeding programs, animal productivity, and the overall health of animal populations. Infertility in domestic animals refers to the inability of an animal to reproduce successfully, either by conceiving, carrying a pregnancy to term, or giving birth to healthy offspring. It can also affect various species of domestic animals, including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, pigs, dogs, cats, and more. It is a significant concern for animal breeders, farmers, pet owners, and veterinarians, as it can have economic, emotional, and practical implications. Infertility can have various causes, including genetic, anatomical abnormalities, age, physiological, endocrine disruptions, nutrition, infections and diseases, environmental, and management factors. Some animals may inherit genetic traits that can lead to reproductive problems, such as structural abnormalities or hormonal imbalances that affect their fertility. Physical abnormalities in the reproductive tract, such as uterine malformations or blocked fallopian tubes, can prevent successful conception and pregnancy. The age of the animal can impact fertility. Older animals might experience reduced reproductive capacity due to changes in hormonal balance and overall health. In females, conditions such as ovarian cysts, uterine infections, and blocked fallopian tubes can lead to infertility. In males, problems like low sperm count, poor sperm motility, and anatomical abnormalities can contribute to infertility. Hormonal disorders, like those affecting the thyroid or reproductive hormones, can disrupt normal reproductive cycles and processes. Exposure to endocrine-disrupting substances, like certain pesticides or pollutants, can interfere with hormonal regulation and reproductive function. Inadequate or imbalanced nutrition can impact an animal's reproductive health. Both under nutrition and excess nutrition can lead to fertility issues. Certain infections, such as sexually transmitted diseases or reproductive tract infections can directly affect reproductive organs or disrupt hormonal balance, leading to infertility. Environmental conditions can have a significant impact on reproductive success. Stress, extreme temperatures, poor housing conditions, and exposure to certain chemicals or toxins can negatively affect fertility. Improper breeding practices, such as overbreeding, or inadequate timing of mating or AI, can lead to reduced fertility. Infertility diagnosis in domestic animals involves a combination of physical examinations, clinical evaluation, reproductive history, and various diagnostic tests, such as hormone level assessments, ultrasound imaging of reproductive organs, and semen analysis in males. Veterinarians will work to identify the underlying cause of infertility in order to develop an appropriate treatment and management strategies. An infertility management strategy involves maintaining optimal reproductive health through balanced ration, suitable housing, disease prevention measures, and stress reduction. Judicious hormonal therapies, surgical interventions, implementing proper breeding practices, and assisted reproductive techniques like artificial insemination or in vitro fertilization can be employed to address specific issues. In conclusion, infertility in domestic animals can have a substantial impact on agricultural productivity and breeding programs. It's important to note that infertility can be a multifaceted problem, often requiring an understanding of the causes, along with appropriate management, veterinary care, and, in some cases, advanced reproductive technologies. Addressing infertility requires focusing on the health and well-being of domestic animals, we can mitigate the challenges posed by infertility and ensure the sustainability of livestock production and companion animal populations.
Author Bio
Dr. Raju R. Shelar (1974) is presently working as Associate Professor (CAS), Department of Animal Reproduction, Gyanecology and Obstetrics, KNP College of Veterinary Science, Shirwal Dist Satara, MAFSU, Nagpur, Maharashtra. He did his B. V. Sc. & A.H.in 1996 from Mahatma Phule Krushi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri, M. V. Sc. (Animal Reproduction) 1998 from KKV, Dapoli and Ph. D. (ARGO) in 2018 from Mumbai Veterinary College, MAFSU, Nagpur. He has qualified NET in 1998, He has participated in 10 advance trainings program CAFT at national institute. He started his career as Farm Manager (CBF) in 1998 in Mumbai and as an Assistant professor (ARGO) at KNP College of Veterinary Science in 2003. His field of specialization is Animal Reproduction and his area of research interest are infertility in animals, andrology, seminolgy and AI. In addition to this, he has performed additional duties as a Farm superintendent, Hospital Registrar, Subject matter specialist, and Hospital superintend, CO-PI RKVY project on Pig farming,. He had conducted National workshop of ISGPU, various technical trainings on infertility and AI for officers of Animal Husbandry department, farmer training programs, workshops farmer’s rallies and animal health and infertility camps. During his total 24 year’s tenure of services, under his guidance 3 students completed M. V. Sc. (ARGO) and he has co-guided for more than 15 students to same degree. He has published four compendium related to Animal Reproduction, Infertility and Artificial Insemination farm animals. He has delivered 01 TV and 25 Radio talks, guest Lectures in scientist training and farmer training programs. Dr. Raju Shelar has also written more than and 100 popular articles in reputed regional language periodicals and daily newspapers. He had received Young Scientist Award of ISSAR (2007), Best Extension Award (2018) and Appreciation certificates from Institutional head for remarkable work of AHC, extension during draught, flood, COVID-19 and Lumpy disease outbreaks in Maharashtra. It wills enrichment capacity building as well as raise academic interest in the field of Veterinary Science area.
