Role of Changes in Physical and Chemical Properties of Milk in Determination of Lambing in Ewes

Alimam, Hussam M.; Naoman, Uday; Hussein, Elias K.; Dahl, Mohammad O.

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2021.93069.1273

Role of Changes in Physical and Chemical Properties of Milk in Determination of Lambing in Ewes

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

¹ Department of Internal and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul

² Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul

³ Department of Surgery and Theriogenology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Mosul, Mosul

10.21608/ejvs.2021.93069.1273

Abstract

Mammary gland and its secretion around parturition show different changes. The objective of the study conducted here was to examine the changes in the physical and chemical properties of the milk before, during, and after lambing. A total of 40 local Iraqi breed ewes, 2 to 4 years-old, confirmed pregnant by B-mode ultrasonography was used in this study. Milk was collected from each study ewe at 3 consecutive times, (i) on day 135 of pregnancy, (ii) at the time of lambing, and (iii) on day 5 postpartum. Milk examinations included colour, consistency, density, specific gravity, chloride contents, pH, light transmittance percentage, and light extinction coefficient. Results indicated changes of colour and consistency during different study periods. Milk density and specific gravity decreased as ewes approached lambing time and started lactation. Milk pH was low at the time of lambing. Mean of light transmittance percentage became zero at the time of lambing and later. The light extinction coefficient increased at the time of lambing and later. In conclusion, although signs of parturition could be simply observed, changes in milk properties can prompt owners to closely observe ewes whether they have already lambed or not.

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