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Research Article

Hormones and Reproductive Physiology in Goat

Fadimatu Dauda Muhammad

Department of Veterinary Medicine, Usman Dan Fodio University Sokoto, Sokoto 840104, Sokoto, Nigeria

Received: 15 March 2025 | Accepted: 21 April 2026 | Published: 26 April 2026

DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21483626 | Pages: 1-11 | Volume: 2 | Issue: 2

Abstract

Reproductive efficiency is a major determinant of productivity and sustainability in small ruminant production systems. In goats, reproductive performance is strongly influenced by physiological factors, with nutritional status playing a critical role in regulating hormonal activities associated with puberty, estrous expression, ovulation, pregnancy establishment, and overall fertility outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between nutritional status, reproductive hormonal profiles, and fertility performance in goats. The research will assess selected nutritional indicators and their association with reproductive hormones, including progesterone, estrogen, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Furthermore, reproductive performance parameters such as estrous cycle characteristics, conception rate, kidding outcomes, and fertility status will be evaluated. Understanding the interaction between nutrition and endocrine regulation will provide valuable insights into improving reproductive management practices, particularly in regions were inadequate feeding and seasonal nutritional variations limit livestock productivity. The findings from this study may contribute to the development of practical nutritional and reproductive management strategies aimed at enhancing fertility efficiency and supporting sustainable goat production.

Keywords

Nutritional status; Reproductive Hormones; Fertility performance; Goats; Progesterone; Estrogen; Luteinizing hormone; Follicle-stimulating hormone; Reproductive physiology; Livestock productivity.

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