Pattern of fecal estradiol and progesterone concentrations throughout estrous cycle in fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus) in Chiang Mai Night Safari
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Abstract
Objective - To study patterns of fecal estradiol and progesterone concentrations throughout estrous cycle in adult captive female fishing cats (Prionailurus viverrinus) using non-invasive fecal steroid analysis method.
Materials and methods - Seven adult captive female fishing cats (4-9 years old) were used to studied patterns of fecal estradiol and progesterone concentrations throughout estrous cycle. The cats were individual housed as a singleton in enclosures off public which display in the same facility and the cats were exposed to natural lighting. Fresh cat fecal samples were collected three times a week 1,344 samples since January 2013 - April 2014. Fecal samples were extracted steroid hormones using ethanol, then measured estradiol and progesterone concentrations by using an estradiol and progesterone enzyme immunosorbent assay (EIA).
Results - All cats showed at least one estrous cycle throughout the year. The mean peak estrogen concentrations in follicular phase was 562.49 ± 95.13 ng/g feces (means ± SEM), increasing nearly 4.7 times above baseline (117.50 ± 10.54 ng/g feces). Estrogen cycle was18.27 ± 1.25 days in average, while, and mean progesterone concentrations in luteal phase was 32.68 ± 2.54 µg/g feces, increasing nearly 8.86 times above baseline (3.69 ± 0.86µg/g feces).
Conclusion - (1) Fishing cats had at least one estrous cycle throughout the year and estrous cycle was18.27 ± 1.25 days. (2) Concentrations of estrogen and progesterone were not influenced by season. (3) The data of present study is useful tool for breeding management and planning for the development of assisted reproductive techniques such as artificial insemination.
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References
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