Effect of Footrot on embryo losses in Polwarth sheep

Abstract

Footrot is caused by the association of Dichelobacter nodosus and Fusobacterium necrophorum. The disease is characterised by severe lameness associated with initial inflammation at the coronary band, followed by progressive separation of the hoof capsule from the underlying tissue. This determines uneasiness in the animal and loss of body condition. Embryo losses are affected by several factors that interact with each other. Among them, the body condition of the sheep is an important factor. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the embryo losses associated with footrot in Polwarth sheep. In autumn, 130 ewes were synchronized with intravaginal sponges for 14 days. According to the footrot score diagnosed, three groups were made: Score 0) Healthy ;1) with minor injuries and 3) with more significant injuries without becoming serious (Scores 4 and 5). Embryo loss (EM) was measured from 18 days post-service to day 50, followed up every 5 days, by transrectal ultrasonography. Subsequently, the presence, number, and size of embryos or foetuses were recorded, as well as the presence of dead embryos or foetuses. The loss of body condition status was determined to have higher embryonic losses in group 3 (72,0%) than in the others (< 25,0).