Reproductive and metabolic responses in ewes to dietary protein supplement during mating period in dry season of Northeast Brazil

Abstract

This study evaluated the effect of food supplements with different levels of protein on reproductive and metabolic response of ewes during the mating period. Forty-one ewes were supplemented during 43 days with amount protein to meet 1.0 (diet I; n = 14), 1.7 (diet II; n = 13) and 2.1 (diet III; n = 14) times the maintenance requirements. Dry matter (DM) intake was higher (P < 0.01) in diet III when compared to diets I and II. Orts were lesser in diets II and III (P < 0.05) when compared to diet I. Intake of organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP) and ether extract (EE) was higher in diet III (P < 0.05), but NDF and ADF intake was superior in diet I (P < 0.05). In diet III, a higher frequency of female mated was observed (P < 0.05). The prolificity and twinning rate was higher in ewes of diet II (P < 0.05). Greater birth weight of lambs (P < 0.05) was verified in diet III. The progesterone levels were affected by diets II and III (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the supplementation of ewes with intermediate level of protein improves their reproductive response.