The effect of vitamin E and Selenium injection on the reproductive performance, birth weight and some blood metabolites in estrus-synchronized Moghani ewes

The aim of the current study was to improve the reproductive performance and birth weight of lambs using vitamin E and selenium (Ese) injection in estrus-synchronized Moghani ewes. In this research, a total of 200 Moghani ewes were divided into two groups in a completely randomized design. In the control group, only estrus synchronization was performed, but the second group was received two intramuscular injections of Ese (5 ml) on the days of sponging and sponge removal. Synchronization of estrus was done by inserting intravaginal sponges for 14 days followed by 400 IU eCG at sponge withdrawal. Two days after sponge withdrawal, ewes were joined with fertile rams. Twenty ewes from each group were selected randomly and their blood was sampled. The first and second blood samplings were done before inserting intravaginal sponges and three weeks after ram exposure, respectively. Then, some blood plasma metabolites were determined. After parturition, reproductive traits were calculated in each group. According to the results, lambing rate, fecundity rate, lamb production efficiency and twinning rate were higher in Ese group (88, 111, 126.1, 21.6 respectively) compared to control (73, 84, 112.3, 12.3 respectively). The birth weight of lambs did not significantly differ between the groups. Glucose and cholesterol concentration of blood were significantly higher in group receiving Ese three weeks after mating. In conclusion Ese injection improved the reproduction performance in Moghani ewes.