Estrus Pattern and Physico-Chemical Properties of Cervico-Vaginal Mucus in Estrus Induced Lakhimi Cows

Lakhimi is an important dual-purpose cattle breed of Assam. The present study was designed to study the pattern of estrus and the physico-chemical properties of cervico-vaginal mucus (CVM) during induced estrus in Lakhimi cows. A total of fifty cyclic Lakhimi cows with good body condition scores (2.5-3.5) in their second to fifth lactations were selected and included in the present study. Experimental cows (n=50) in the mid-luteal stage with a functional CL were synchronized using a single PGF2ɑ based protocol for estrus induction. Following PGF2ɑ administration, all the cows were monitored to determine their estrus response. CVM samples were collected during proestrus and estrus, and various physico-chemical properties were determined. In the current study, 100% of the cows responded to a single PGF2ɑ with intervals to the onset of proestrus and estrus of 48.72±1.25 and 82.60±1.52 hours, respectively, while most cows (90%) exhibited weak oestrus intensity. During proestrus and estrus, clear CVM was recorded in 96% and 90% of cows, respectively, while the pH of CVM was 6.90±0.81 during proestrus and 8.06±0.08 during estrus. The spinnbarkeit value of CVM at proestrus (8.81±0.12 cm) was significantly lower than that at estrus (14.02±0.21 cm). The arborization pattern of CVM revealed a higher incidence of the atypical fern pattern (94.00%) at proestrus and the typical fern pattern (78.00%) at estrus. In conclusion, determining the induced estrus response and characterising the physico-chemical properties of CVM at proestrus and estrus may help improve fertility among Lakhimi cows.