A RETROSPECTIVE STUDY ON FACTORS INFLUENCING THE REPRODUCTIVE PERFORMANCE OF BROODMARES
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Keywords
Mares, housing management, Pakistan, Conception rate, Foal
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the reproductive performance of a database of 120 broodmares of three different breeds (Arabian, Percheron, and Thoroughbred) for the last ten years (2012-2022) under subtropical conditions of Pakistan. A survey form was developed to systematically record and analyze the various factors that influence reproductive outcomes, such as mare age, breed, and housing management practices (excellent, good, and fair), were analyzed. The Arabian mares showed significantly higher foal numbers (5.45), foal heat conceptions (2.40), and pregnancy rates (43.95) at foal heat (p<0.05) compared to other breeds. Housing management plays a vital role in the performance of broodmares. Excellent housing management showed significantly higher results than others. Higher foal production (5.89), foal heat conceptions (2.67), and a lower rate of dystocia (0.00%) were observed in excellent management. Percheron mares have better rates of normal foaling (85%) and good foal production (100%), whereas Arab mares have far higher end-season fertility (85%). In summary, superior management correlates with higher rates of normal foaling and enhanced end-season fertility, offering crucial insights for optimizing broodmare management in subtropical climates and bolstering equine breeding sustainability.
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Muhammad Athar Chatha
Department of Livestock Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore
, Contact Number: +92300-8116552
Nisar Ahmad
Department of Livestock Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore
Muhammad Athar Abbas
Department of Livestock Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore
Muhammad Saadullah
Department of Livestock Management, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore
Jawaria Ali Khan
Department of Clinical Medicine & Surgery, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore