Effect of flunixin meglumine usage on conception rates on estrus synchronized of awassi ewes during breeding season

Aim: In the present study; the effects of flunixin meglumine application on the fertility of synchronized Awassi ewes was investigated during breeding season. Materials and Methods: In this study 100 multiparous Awassi ewes, aged 2-4, housed in the same care and feeding conditions used. For this purpose, 30 mg fluorogesteron acetate vaginal sponge placed into the vagina during the breeding season (September- October). On the 11th days after insertion of sponge, 10 mg PGF2? intramuscularly administered. Vaginal sponges withdrawn on day 12 and administered with 400 IU PMSG intramuscularly. Following intramuscular PMSG injection the ewes which show estrus sign joined to known fertility rams. The animals were allocated into two equal groups as treatment and control. Flunixin meglumine applied i.m at the dose of 1.1 mg / kg on the 9th day and on the 10th day post mating (n = 50) included in the treated group. No treatment made to the ewes (n = 50) included in the control group. The pregnancy diagnosis was performed by trans-abdominal route by real time ultrasonography on day 50 after mating. Results: The rate of conception in the treated and control groups was 40.9 % and 33.3 %, respectively (p >0.05). The rate of lambing in treated and control groups was 77.7 % and 87.5 %, respectively (p >0.05). Conclusion: The application of flunixin meglumine on the 9th and 10th days after breeding in Awasi ewes only increased the rate of conception numerically. However, it can be considered to increase conception rate in alternative options such as artificial insemination and embryo transfer.