Blood biochemical and hormonal profiles vis-a-vis production performance of single and twin kid bearing Surti goats (Capra hircus)

Abstract

Study was undertaken to investigate the effect of single and twin kidding on blood bio-chemical, hormonal profiles and production performance of 14 goats. The animals were divided into group1 (single kid, n=7) and group 2 (twin kids, n= 7). The blood samples were collected on 0, 7, 15, 30, 45 and 60 day of parturition for analysis of blood profiles. Milk yield and fat% were also recorded on different test days. Serum glucose, albumin, BUN and cholesterol was higher in twin bearing dam; however, it was not significantly (P less than 0.05) different. Overall total protein and NEFA was higher in singlet bearing goats on 0 and 45 days of parturition. Cortisol was significantly (P less than 0.05) higher in singlet bearing goats initially (7d) during kidding, however overall cortisol level was higher in twin bearing dams, indicating fast recovery of stress in singlet bearing goats. Level of estrogen was also higher in twin bearing goats. Milk yield was significantly higher in twin bearing goats. It was therefore inferred that kidding pattern had a marked influence on blood profiles and production performance in Surti goats.