Metabolic and oxidative status of West African dwarf does at different reproductive stages in southwest Nigeria

Background A study was conducted to investigate changes in oxidative stress indicators of West African dwarf (WAD) goats at different reproductive stages. There are a total of 35 dry does, 30 gravid does at first trimester (40–45 days post-mating), 33 gravid does at second trimester (85–90 days post-mating), 31 gravid does at third trimester (135–140 days post-mating), and 40 postpartum does (30–35 days postpartum). Fastened blood samples were collected from all tagged animals and serum obtained. Serum was assayed for lipid peroxidation, total antioxidant activity, glutathione peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase, serum biochemical, glucose, total protein, albumin, cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, urea, and creatinine using standard procedures. Results Result revealed that intense metabolic changes were associated with late prepartum and postpartum does as pronounced in oxidative and biochemical indicators of WAD does. Significant differences were found in serum biochemical indices across the different physiological stages of the doe except for triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein. Antioxidant defense is higher at early and mid-gestation and dry does, through low lipid peroxidation and high antioxidant activity as compared to late gestation and lactation does. Conclusion The observed result shows that the WAD does display oxidative stress during late gestation and lactation owing to intense metabolism. Antioxidant fortification should be employed especially during late gestation and lactation to counteract the oxidative stress in WAD goats.