Abstract
The beneficial effect of propylene glycol (PG) to mammals as an energy source has been reported. The aims of present study were to investigate the effects of propylene glycol drenching to Farafra ewes on body weight gain and feed utilization efficiency, development of ovarian follicles, uterine involution and reproductive. Fifty ewes were randomly distributed to control (n-20) and propylene glycol goups (PG; n-30). Ewes of PG group were drenched 100 ml/head PG twice weekly from 4 weeks pre-partum to 8 weeks post-partum whereas those of control group were drenched 100 ml/head of saline solution. Development of ovarian follicles and corpora lutea were checked during postpartum weeks in addition to uterine involution and reproductive indices. Body weight gain recorded higher (P<0.05) in PG group than control one. PG supplemetation had a significant effect (P<0.05) on postpartum reproductive performance of ewes in terms of fast uterine involution, earlier resumption of ovarian function, high number of small, medium, and large-sized follicles, decreased number of services per conception (1.2 vs. 1.8) and improved pregnancy rate (90% vs. 50%). Higher concentrations (P<0.05) of total protein, glucose, T3 and T4 were detected in PG group while AST. ALT and NEFA concentrations were lower (P<0.05) if compared to control one. In addition, milk yield were improved (P<0.05) due to PG treatment. It could be concluded that PG drenching during peripartum period in ewes can supply energy rapidly resulting in anabolism of body tissue, improved reproductive performance and milk yield without any adverse effect on physiological responses.