The Reproductive Cycle

The Reproductive Cycle

Pro-oestrus

  • associated with vulval oedemafluid accumulation/ swelling and a blood tinged vaginal discharge
  • she will attract the male but will not stand to mate
  • lasts around 7 - 10 days

Oestrus

 

Metoestrus

  • lasts around 90 days
  • associated with two hormones:
  1. Progesteronea steroid hormone secreted by the corpus luteum of the ovary that maintains pregnancy and promotes the development of the mammary glands. - maintains pregnancy
  2. Prolactina hormone released from the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that stimulates the secretion of progesterone by the corpus luteum and initiates and maintains lactation. - causes milk production and nursing behaviour in late pregnancy, in preparation for the arrival of puppies

Anoestrous