Correlational analysis of anuclear cell index and serum progesterone concentration for predicting the optimum time of breeding in subfertile bitches#

Twenty bitches with previous history of subfertility presented for breeding management at University Veterinary Hospital, Kokkalai were selected for the study. The stage of oestrous cycle was determined and breeding scheduled based predominantly on anuclear cell index (ACI) and serum progesterone assay, after giving due weightage to behaviour and clinical signs. First mating was considered as day 0 and the second as day 3. The mean ACI of the bitches under study was 56.4 ± 1.53 per cent and the mean serum progesterone levels was recorded as 2.82± 0.16 ng/mL three days prior to breeding (day 3). Since, ACI had highly positive correlation with serum progesterone level (Pearson’s correlation coefficient being 0.880) in subfertile bitches three days prior to first breeding, it could be inferred that, when the mean ACI reached more than 55 per cent, serum progesterone levels reach values corresponding to presumably the day of LH surge and by considering both the variables, the day of ovulation could be predicted. Hence, the correlation analysis of ACI and progesterone assay can be considered as reliable method to schedule optimum breeding time in subfertile bitches.