ABSTRACT
The present study was conducted on 30 healthy Saidi ewes, aged 3- 10 years old, located in Malawi Research Station, APRI, Ministry of Agriculture. Blood samples were collected from ewes one month before mating (pre- mating) and from 15 ewes, out of the thirty, one month before parturition (late pregnancy) and one month after parturition (post-partum/suckling). Serum analysis was carried out to determine the influence of the reproductive status on serum hormonal levels and some blood biochemical constituents. Results showed that concentrations of serum thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) were significantly lower in ewes at the last month of pregnancy comparing with those in pre-mating and postpartum/suckling. While, significant high insulin level was recorded in pre-mating ewes than that in late pregnancy and postpartum/suckling ewes. Serum Ca, Fe and Zn concentrations were significantly affected by ewes' reproductive status. Calcium levels decreased significantly in ewes during late pregnancy and postpartum/suckling. Serum Fe concentration was higher in late pregnancy and postpartum/suckling than in pre-mating. Zn concentration was significantly low in ewes at late pregnancy and postpartum/suckling than in pre-mated ewes. Meanwhile, serum inorganic- P, K, Na and Mg levels were not affected by ewe reproductive status. In addition, the concentrations of serum total protein decreased in ewes at late pregnancy and postpartum/suckling. Also, the results showed a significant decrease in glucose level in late pregnancy.
In conclusion, monitoring the concentration of thyroid hormones, insulin and some biochemical parameters in the blood of ewes at different physiological status gives basis for the regular therapy application and carrying out the prophylactic of metabolic disturbances of ewes in the aim of reducing economy losses.