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Cunto M, Ballotta G, Zambelli D. Semen Collection and Evaluation in Two Tigers ( Panthera tigris) and Two Leopards ( Panthera pardus). Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2381. [PMID: 39199915 PMCID: PMC11350672 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/08/2024] [Accepted: 08/14/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproduction techniques play a significant role in veterinary medicine, and although they are widely used in domestic animals, they are also becoming increasingly relevant in clinical practice for wild felids, especially in the conservation efforts for endangered species. In this study, the result of two semen collection techniques, urethral catheterization after pharmacological induction (Ur.Ca.P.I.) and electroejaculation, are described, aiming to provide new practical information about sperm collection using the Ur.Ca.P.I. technique and electroejaculation in tigers and leopards, describing the authors' experience and presenting new data and observations. The following descriptive study included two subjects of Panthera tigris species and two of Panthera pardus. These subjects, after general anesthesia, underwent sperm collection initially with Ur.Ca.P.I. and, subsequently, with electroejaculation. Sampling was made possible in both species thanks to the use of electroejaculation. Sperm volumes in leopards ranged from 0.3 to 0.5 mL and in tigers from 0.5 to 2.177 mL. Sperm concentration in leopards ranged from 136 × 106 to 280 × 106 sperm/mL, and in tigers, from 21.5 × 106 to 354 × 106 sperm/mL. Urethral catheterization gave positive results in leopards, with sperm volumes ranging from 25 up to 150 µL and a concentration ranging from 110 × 106 up to 1082 × 106 sperm/mL. In tigers, unlike in leopards, the use of the Ur.Ca.P.I. technique encountered difficulties that did not allow satisfactory results to be obtained. Therefore, it would be useful to test the feasibility of urethral catheterization on a larger group of individuals in order to have more meaningful feedback. Finally, because electroejaculation always allowed semen collection in tigers, with a higher sperm quality than samples collected by Ur.Ca.P.I., we currently consider it the technique of choice for the collection of semen material in this species.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giulia Ballotta
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, University of Bologna, Ozzano dell’Emilia, 40064 Bologna, Italy; (M.C.); (D.Z.)
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Carneiro JDS, Motheo TF. Pharmacological semen collection in domestic and wild canids and felids: literature review. Anim Reprod 2024; 20:e20230036. [PMID: 38380384 PMCID: PMC10878541 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2023-0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2023] [Accepted: 12/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2024] Open
Abstract
Semen collection methods vary greatly and rely on the practitioner's expertise, available materials, and the specific behavioral traits of the male animals involved. When it comes to domestic cats, wild felids, and canids, semen collection is particularly challenging. Thus, given the difficulty of semen collection in these species, pharmacological semen collection (PSC) stands out since it is a quick and straightforward method that does not require specific equipment. The PSC consists of administering α2-adrenergic receptor agonist drugs, mainly medetomidine, and dexmedetomidine, aiming semen release into the urethra with posterior urethral catheterization and sperm recovery. This technique was primarily described in domestic cats and wild felids, and despite the decreased seminal volume, the retrieved semen is highly concentrated and presents good quality. However, further studies are required to optimize semen collection in domestic dogs and wild canids. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive overview of the research developed on pharmacological semen collection (PSC) in the past few decades. The objective is to equip professionals with the essential knowledge required for the efficient application of this technique in both domestic and wild canids and felids and to make a valuable contribution to conservation efforts and the preservation of biodiversity, aligning with the principles of One Conservation.
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Gloria A, Cunto M, Zambelli D, Bracco C, Ballotta G, Contri A. Cushioned and high-speed centrifugation improve sperm recovery rate but affect the quality of fresh and cryopreserved feline spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2024; 215:195-204. [PMID: 38096623 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
The development of endoscopic transcervical catheterization (ETC) in the queen increases the interest in handling fresh and cryopreserved feline semen. The ETC requires a small volume of the insemination dose with a high concentration, not easily reached with the actual frozen technique in this species. Centrifugation is widely used to concentrate spermatozoa for several purposes, but this process is detrimental to spermatozoa. This study verified the effects of conventional and cushioned centrifugation on fresh and cryopreserved feline spermatozoa. To this, semen was collected from 20 toms, grouped in seven pools and diluted. After dilution, the pools were divided into two aliquots, the first used for centrifugation on fresh semen, and the second, after freezing, on cryopreserved semen. Centrifugation regimens were: conventional at 500×g, conventional at 1000×g, and cushioned (iodixanol) at 1000×g. The sperm recovery rate was calculated for the three centrifugation regimens, and sperm kinematics, membrane and acrosome integrity, and plasma membrane stability on viable spermatozoa were assessed as endpoints. The data reported in this study showed that the centrifugation at 500×g resulted in negligible effects on both fresh and cryopreserved spermatozoa, but the lower recovery rate (62.4 ± 3.1 % and 60.2 ± 1.6 %, respectively) underlines the loss of a large proportion of spermatozoa, unfavourable in a species with small total sperm ejaculated. On the other hand, the centrifugation at 1000×g improved the recovery rate (86.9 ± 4.3 % and 89.8 ± 2.4 % in fresh and cryopreserved samples, respectively), but was more deleterious for feline spermatozoa, especially in cryopreserved samples (i.e. total motility of 40.7 ± 5.4 % compared with 57.2 ± 9.8 % in cryopreserved uncentrifuged samples, P < 0.05), resulting in artificial insemination doses of lower quality. The recovery rate in cushioned centrifugation appeared less efficient, likely due to the small volume of feline samples, which makes difficult the separation of sperm pellet and cushioned fluid. Interestingly, in cryopreserved samples centrifuged at 1000×g the number of viable spermatozoa with membrane destabilization (31.3 ± 3.2 %) was greater than uncentrifuged (4.1 ± 0.7 %, P < 0.05) and those centrifuged at 500×g (9.8 ± 1.3 %, P < 0.05), suggesting modifications induced by the cryopreservation amplifies centrifugation sublethal damage on feline spermatozoa. Cushioned centrifugation on cryopreserved samples showed kinematics similar to uncentrifuged samples, but higher viable spermatozoa with membrane destabilization (37.4 ± 3.4 % vs 4.1 ± 0.7 %; P < 0.05). In felines, g-force is crucial for sperm recovery rate during centrifugation, with better results at 1000×g; on the other hand, greater g-forces could have a significant impact on the quality of feline insemination dose, especially in cryopreserved samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessia Gloria
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Marco Cunto
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy
| | - Daniele Zambelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy.
| | - Claudia Bracco
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
| | - Giulia Ballotta
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Ozzano dell'Emilia, 40064, Italy
| | - Alberto Contri
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Teramo, Loc. Piano d'Accio, 64100, Teramo, Italy
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Hidalgo MMT, de Almeida ABM, Dos Santos Silva LA, Greghi JR, Silva VW, Sambatti NR, Trautwein LGC, Martins MIM. Comparison of two pharmacological semen collection times with α2-adrenergic agonist in domestic cats. Reprod Domest Anim 2023; 58:1207-1213. [PMID: 37386933 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2023] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/27/2023] [Indexed: 07/01/2023]
Abstract
The use of α2-adrenergic agonists in association with urethral catheterization has been used as a technique for pharmacological semen collection in cats. The mechanism of action of this drug is the stimulation of adrenoreceptors in the vas deferens, which results in ejaculation. While medetomidine is the α2-agonist most commonly used in studies, ejaculation with the use of dexmedetomidine associated with ketamine has been effective, but with variable results. Therefore, further studies regarding the methodology of use are required to obtain better seminal quality. This study aimed to compare two pharmacological semen collection times after the association of dexmedetomidine (30 μg/kg, IM; Dormitor®, Zoetis), ketamine (5 mg/kg, IM; ketamine, Vetnil) and urethral catheterization using a tomcat probe (0.8 mm × 1.00 mm × 11 cm). The collections were divided into two experimental groups: G10 (N = 8; urethral catheterization after 10 min of anaesthesia) and G15 (N = 8; urethral catheterization after 15 min of anaesthesia). The ejaculates were evaluated for ejaculate volume, sperm concentration, morphology and kinetics using the CASA system. To compare the groups, the t-test and the Mann-Whitney U-test were used with a significance level of 5%. It was identified that ejaculate volume (G10: 22.62 ± 2.13 vs. G15: 26.81 ± 1.55; p < .001) and sperm concentration (G10: 48.10 × 106 ± 17.84 vs. G15: 90.18 × 106 ± 19.35; p < .001) was higher in G15 than in G10 and had a lower percentage of minor defects than G10 (G10: 3.12 ± 2.41 vs. G15: 1.00 ± 1.19; p = .043). Regarding the kinetic parameters, the results of G15 were better for total motility-TM (G10: 67.00 ± 10.33 vs. G15: 81.87 ± 7.99; p = .006) and faster cells-RAPID: (G10: 55.00 ± 16.63 vs. G15: 74.25 ± 11.94; p = .019); whereas a higher proportion of cells with slow speed-SLOW were seen in G10 (G10: 31.00 ± 12.07 vs. 17.12 ± 7.53; p = .015). Based on these findings, we suggest that collection via urethral catheterization should be performed 15 min after the application of ketamine-associated dexmedetomidine to obtain a better-quality ejaculate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Julia Rodrigues Greghi
- Laboratório de Andrologia e Reprodução Animal Assistida - LARAA, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
| | - Vinícius Wagner Silva
- Laboratório de Andrologia e Reprodução Animal Assistida - LARAA, Londrina, Paraná, Brazil
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Diggelmann ALR, Baron Toaldo M, Bektas RN, Furthner E, Reichler IM, Kutter APN. Atipamezole Reverses Cardiovascular Changes Induced by High-Dose Medetomidine in Cats Undergoing Sedation for Semen Collection. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:1909. [PMID: 37370419 DOI: 10.3390/ani13121909] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Revised: 05/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
This study aimed at describing the change in echocardiographic variables after high-dose medetomidine and the reversal with atipamezole in six cats undergoing sedation for semen collection. Further cardiac Troponin I (cTnI) concentration and the effect of repeated sedation were assessed. Echocardiography was performed before and 20 min after sedation with 0.1 mg/kg medetomidine intramuscularly (IM) for urethral catheterisation. Prior to epididymectomy, S-ketamine was administered intravenously. Twenty minutes after reversal with 0.5 mg/kg atipamezole IM, the third echocardiography was performed. Sedation with medetomidine and reversal with atipamezole was repeated on day 7, 14, 21 and 28. Heart rate (HR) and rhythm were monitored throughout all sedations. On day 0 and 28 cTnI concentrations were measured before and after the procedure. After normality testing, the values were compared over time. The administration of medetomidine led to a marked reduction in HR, cardiac output and ventricular systolic function and a significant increase in left ventricular dimensions. Rhythm abnormalities, such as ventricular premature complexes and idioventricular rhythm, could be observed. The administration of atipamezole completely reversed sedation and the changes in haemodynamic variables. No significant increase in cTnI concentrations could be detected, although two out of six cats showed values above the reference range.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna-Lea R Diggelmann
- Section of Anaesthesiology, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Marco Baron Toaldo
- Clinic for Small Animal Internal Medicine, Division of Cardiology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rima N Bektas
- Section of Anaesthesiology, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Etienne Furthner
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Iris M Reichler
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Department for Farm Animals, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Annette P N Kutter
- Section of Anaesthesiology, Department for Clinical Diagnostics and Services, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057 Zurich, Switzerland
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6
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Zambelli D, Cunto M. Artificial Insemination in Queens in the Clinical Practice Setting: Protocols and challenges. J Feline Med Surg 2022; 24:871-880. [PMID: 36002144 PMCID: PMC10812221 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x221118756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
PRACTICAL RELEVANCE Despite substantial advances in assisted reproductive techniques having been recently reported in cats, the use of these is limited and routine application is still far from being a reality in veterinary clinics. Nevertheless, there is an increasing demand from domestic cat breeders for artificial insemination (AI) techniques that are already commonly used in dogs. Where natural breeding is not possible in tom cats and queens of high breeding value, AI could offer a solution. Clinical challenges: AI in cats is more difficult than in other species - both in terms of semen collection/handling and oestrous cycle management given that ovulation must be induced. AIM For practitioners wishing to perform AI in queens, there are challenges to overcome, and a good understanding of the techniques and procedures involved is pivotal. This review aims to contribute to improved knowledge by providing an overview of AI protocols, encompassing choice of breeding animals, procedures for semen collection, oestrus and ovulation induction, AI techniques and equipment. EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL SKILLS Depending on the animals involved and the specific AI technique chosen, essential equipment may include an artificial vagina, electroejaculator, endoscope (sialendoscope, which can be fairly expensive) and special catheters for transcervical insemination. Other instrumentation and materials needed are typically readily available in a veterinary clinic. In general, no particular skills are needed to perform the procedures described in this review, with the exception of endoscopic transcervical catheterisation, where the ability to use an endoscope is required. EVIDENCE BASE The information and advice/recommendations provided are based on specific feline research and reviews published in scientific peer-reviewed journals, animal reproduction textbooks, and presentations at national and international congresses. The authors also drew on their own clinical experience with regard to the choice of protocols and procedures presented in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Zambelli
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-Universita di Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra, 50 – 40064 – Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy
| | - Marco Cunto
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Alma Mater Studiorum-Universita di Bologna, via Tolara di Sopra, 50 – 40064 – Ozzano dell’Emilia (BO), Italy
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7
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Andrews CJ, Yapura J, Potter MA, McGlade K, Perrott M, Thomas DG. Exogenous glucocorticoid treatment affects Sertoli cell load and epididymal sperm quality in domestic cats (Felis catus). Theriogenology 2022; 189:20-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Revised: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 05/28/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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8
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How Can We Introduce ART into Wild Felid Conservation in Practice? Joint Experience in Semen Collection from Captive Wild Felids in Europe. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12070871. [PMID: 35405860 PMCID: PMC8997001 DOI: 10.3390/ani12070871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Artificial reproductive techniques (ART), such as cryopreservation of sperm cells and artificial insemination, are useful tools for species conservation. However, there is relatively little information published about their introduction into clinical practice for wild felids. The aim of this paper was to describe how those techniques were applied by three European teams in various species of wild felids. In total, this article presents 22 semen collection attempts in 12 species of wild felids, 15 of which were successful and resulted in the collection of at least one million spermatozoa. The failures in obtaining spermatozoa were most probably due to (1) male infertility, (2) wrong age/non-breeding season, or (3) recent multiple copulations. The cases presented in the article confirm that although ART have been introduced into clinical practice, they are mostly used in cases of infertility, not as routine breeding tools. Greater involvement of zoological gardens and private breeders is required, as many chances for preservation of valuable material are lost. Abstract Although artificial reproductive techniques (ART) are considered to be a valuable tool for species conservation, information about their introduction into clinical practice for wild felids is limited. The aim of this paper was to jointly describe cases of non-experimental sperm collection from males of various species of wild felids, performed by three European centers focused on feline reproduction. In total, the article presents 22 attempts of semen collection in 12 species of wild felids. The reasons for semen collection were: fertility assessment (10 cases), artificial insemination (5 cases), sperm rescue (postmortem collection for cryopreservation, 5 cases), and sperm banking (in vivo collection for cryopreservation, 2 cases). Semen collection was successful (defined as at least 1 × 106 spermatozoa) in 15 cases. The failures in obtaining spermatozoa were most probably due to (1) male infertility, (2) wrong age/non-breeding season, or (3) recent multiple copulations. The cases presented here confirm that although ART have been introduced into clinical practice, they are mostly used in cases of infertility, not as routine breeding tools. Higher involvement of zoological gardens and private breeders is required, as many chances for preservation of valuable material are lost.
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Takaesu N, Kanno C, Sugimoto K, Nagano M, Kaneko A, Indo Y, Imai H, Hirai H, Okamoto M, Sashika M, Shimozuru M, Katagiri S, Tsubota T, Yanagawa Y. Semen collection by urethral catheterization and electro-ejaculation with different voltages, and the effect of holding temperature and cooling rate before cryopreservation on semen quality in the Japanese macaque (Macaca fuscata). J Vet Med Sci 2022; 84:429-438. [PMID: 35067494 PMCID: PMC8983288 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.21-0590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In the Japanese macaque, semen has been collected by electro-ejaculation (EE), using the higher voltage stimuli compared to other species including genus Macaca. Semen coagulate immediately after ejaculation, which makes difficult to produce high-quality semen for artificial insemination. Recently, semen collection using urethral catheterization (UC) has been reported in carnivore and this technique may allow semen collection without coagulation in a less invasive manner. Further, the temporal preservation temperature and cooling rate of semen during cryopreservation affect post thawing sperm quality. In this study, to improve semen quality and quantity, as well as the animal welfare, semen collection was performed by EE with high (5-15 V) or low (3-6 V) voltage, UC and a combination of the two (EE-UC). It has been suggested that a high voltage is necessary for semen collection, but 10 V stimulation was effective enough and 15 V is for additional sperm collection. Also, liquid semen was collected by EE-UC and this could increase the total number of sperm. Further, to improve the post thawing sperm motility, semen was kept at four temperatures (4, 15, 25 and 37˚C) for 60 min, and processed with two cooling procedures (slow cooling before second dilution and fast cooling after second dilution). Holding semen at 25˚C and fast cooling after the second dilution maintained progressive motile sperm rate. The present results will contribute to the improvement of semen collection and animal welfare of Japanese macaques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noboru Takaesu
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Chihiro Kanno
- Laboratory of Clinical Veterinary Medicine for Large Animal, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University
| | - Kosuke Sugimoto
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Masashi Nagano
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, School of Veterinary Medicine, Kitasato University
| | | | - Yoriko Indo
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University
| | - Hiroo Imai
- Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University
| | | | | | - Mariko Sashika
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Michito Shimozuru
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Seiji Katagiri
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Toshio Tsubota
- Laboratory of Wildlife Biology and Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
| | - Yojiro Yanagawa
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University
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10
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da Silva MCC, Ullony KM, de Araújo GR, Jorge-Neto PN, Albuquerque VB, Caramalac SM, de Oliveira AR, Zanella R, Marques MG, Csemark AC, Luczinski TC, Frazílio FDO, Silva EVDCE, de Deco-Souza T. Can detomidine replace medetomidine for pharmacological semen collection in domestic cats? Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20210017. [PMID: 34249155 PMCID: PMC8253561 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2021-0017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the different methods used for semen collection from domestic cats, the pharmacological collection by urethral catheterization becomes disruptive. Medetomidine is the elected α2-adrenoceptor agonist for that, but in several countries, it is not commercially available. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of detomidine compared to medetomidine in collecting semen by urethral catheterization in domestic cats. Urethral catheterization was performed on 13 mongrel cats using a disposable semi-rigid tomcat urinary catheter. Of the 19 semen collections performed with medetomidine induction, 94.7% were successful, while with detomidine induction, only 56.3% of 16 were successful. The values semen samples variables were as follows for volume - 10.56 ± 0.4 vs 8.88 ± 0.5 mL, motility - 171.67 ± 0.79 vs 49.77 ± 3.45%, vigor - 4.1 ± 0.03 vs 3.10 ± 0.1 and concentration - 3.24 ± 0.19 vs 2.15 ± 0.13 ×109 sperm/mL respectively for medetomidine and detomidine group. The failure in semen collections with detomidine was mainly due to azoospermic samples, poor urethral relaxation, insufficient volume, or contamination of urine. The sperm concentration was also lower in the detomidine group (P <0.05) when compared to medetomidine. However, when the volume of semen collected was compared, we found no statistical differences. Despite its low performance in collecting semen from cats, detomidine may be an alternative when medetomidine is not accessible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maitê Cardoso Coelho da Silva
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Karitha Marques Ullony
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Gediendson Ribeiro de Araújo
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Br.asil
| | - Pedro Nacib Jorge-Neto
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | - Verônica Batista Albuquerque
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Simone Marques Caramalac
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Alice Rodrigues de Oliveira
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Ricardo Zanella
- Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Curso de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade de Passo Fundo, Passo Fundo, RS, Brasil
| | | | - Antonio Carlos Csemark
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
| | - Thiago Cavalheri Luczinski
- Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | - Thyara de Deco-Souza
- Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil.,Instituto Reprocon, Campo Grande, MS, Brasil
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11
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Prochowska S, Ni A Ski W. Transscrotal stimulation of the testes and epididymides improves urethral sperm collection in domestic cats. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 33:437-440. [PMID: 33662254 DOI: 10.1071/rd21010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Urethral catheterisation after medetomidine administration is the method of choice for semen collection in cats, but it yields variable results. This study tested whether scrotal manual stimulation can improve urethral sperm collection in domestic cats. The study was performed on 20 male cats, from which two urethral semen samples were collected, one before and one after 2min of transscrotal finger massage of the testes and epididymides. Both sperm samples were assessed for total sperm count and motility using computer-aided sperm analysis, viability and morphology (eosin-nigrosin staining). The transscrotal manual stimulation allowed a significantly higher number of spermatozoa to be obtained (P=0.0015). Viability was similar before and after the stimulation (median 92% and 90.5%), whereas the number of motile (median 60% and 70%) and morphologically normal (median 17% and 30.5%) spermatozoa was higher in the second sample (P=0.03 and P=0.002 respectively), which confirms that transscrotal massage induced the expulsion of a fresh pool of spermatozoa into the urethra. Transscrotal stimulation of the testes and epididymides significantly improves urethral semen collection in domestic cats and can be easily introduced into clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Prochowska
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland; and Corresponding author.
| | - W Ni A Ski
- Department of Reproduction and Clinic of Farm Animals, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, 50-366 Wroclaw, Poland
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Zahmel J, Jänsch S, Jewgenow K, Sandgreen DM, Skalborg Simonsen K, Colombo M. Maturation and fertilization of African lion (Panthera leo) oocytes after vitrification. Cryobiology 2020; 98:146-151. [PMID: 33248046 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Revised: 11/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The African lion is an excellent model species for the highly endangered Asiatic lion. African lions reproduce well in zoos, leading to the fact that occasionally ovaries and testis are available for in-vitro experiments. We previously performed in-vitro maturation (IVM) and fertilization of lion oocytes and were able to produce advanced embryos after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with cryopreserved sperm. Here we examined whether our in-vitro method is also applicable after vitrification of immature oocytes. Oocytes of four lionesses (5-7 years old) were obtained after euthanasia and immediately processed on site. Half of the oocytes (n = 60) were subjected to IVM for a total of 32-34 h at 39 °C, 5% CO2 and humidified air atmosphere. The second group (59 oocytes) was vitrified instantly using the Cryotop method. Following 6 days of storage in liquid nitrogen, oocytes were warmed and subjected to IVM as well. Mature oocytes of both groups were fertilized with frozen-thawed African lion sperm using ICSI. Maturation rate was 55% and 49.2% for the control and vitrified group, respectively. In the control group, three oocytes cleaved and another three were arrested at the pronuclei stage. Due to the low fertilization result, a sperm sample of another male was used for the vitrified group. Of the vitrified oocytes 7 cleaved and 9 more oocytes stopped at pronuclei stage. All embryos of the vitrified group did not develop beyond 4 cell stage. This is the first time that African lion in-vitro-derived embryos have been produced following oocyte vitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Zahmel
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Stefanie Jänsch
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Katarina Jewgenow
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, 10315, Berlin, Germany.
| | | | | | - Martina Colombo
- Dip. Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133, Milano, Italy.
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Iglesias G, Bento H, Kuczmarski A, Costa T, Ribeiro J, Pimentel S, Paulino J, Adania C, Paz R. Coleta de sêmen em Leopardus guttulus pelo método do cateterismo uretral. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-11345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Considerando a realidade conservacionista dos animais mantidos em cativeiro, em especial os pequenos felídeos silvestres, objetivou-se, com este estudo, descrever o método de coleta de sêmen por cateterismo uretral em Leopardus guttulus cativos, anestesiados com cetamina-dexmedetomidina. Inicialmente foram utilizados 13 animais para coleta de sêmen por cateterismo mediante o uso de diferentes doses de cetamina-dexmedetomidina. Após determinação da dose anestésica ideal para coleta de sêmen nessa espécie, cinco L. guttulus machos foram submetidos a coletas seriadas de sêmen pelo método do cateterismo. A dose ideal para coleta de sêmen foi de 0,008mg/kg de dexmedetomidina e 10mg/kg de cetamina. Os valores médios para volume e concentração foram de 35,9µL e 552,8x106sptz/mL. Com média de 71% de motilidade e 3,1 de vigor, 68% dos espermatozoides apresentaram vitalidade (integridade de membrana) e 77% integridade acrossomal. Sobre as patologias espermáticas, obteve-se uma média de 28% de espermatozoides com defeitos maiores, 6% com defeitos menores e 67% normais. As vantagens do método, como a facilidade e o baixo custo, fazem recomendar sua utilização em L. guttulus, pois foram apresentados bons resultados quanto à concentração espermática, à motilidade, ao vigor, à viabilidade espermática e à integridade acrossomal, sendo uma técnica promissora para utilização em felinos selvagens.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - H.J. Bento
- Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | | | | | - J. Ribeiro
- Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Brazil
| | | | - J.S. Paulino
- Centro Brasileiro para Conservação dos Felinos Neotropicais, Brazil
| | - C.H. Adania
- Centro Brasileiro para Conservação dos Felinos Neotropicais, Brazil
| | - R.C.R. Paz
- Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso, Brazil
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Kuczmarski AH, Alves de Barros M, Souza de Lima LF, Motheo TF, Bento HJ, Iglesias GA, Sônego DA, Rodrigues da Paz RC. Urethral catheterization after pharmacological induction for semen collection in dog. Theriogenology 2020; 153:34-38. [PMID: 32417609 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.04.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The α-adrenergic agents are known to influence erection and ejaculation, and ejaculatory reflex is a primarily α-adrenergically mediated event. This paper aims to describe the urethral catheterization technique after pharmacological induction for semen collection in domestic dogs. For dose determination, semen collection was performed using increasing doses of dexmedetomidine (5 μg/kg, n = 2; 10 μg/kg, n = 2 and 15 μg/kg, n = 2) associated to 3 mg/kg ketamine in six animals. Once the dose was established, additional semen collection using association of 15 μg/kg dexmedetomidine and 3 mg/kg ketamine was carried out in eight dogs. After the procedure, sperm volume (0.092 ± 0.03 mL), total motility (58.33 ± 8.7%), vigor (1.89 ± 0.309), sperm concentration (1186.67 ± 304.667 × 106 sperm/mL), sperm plasma membrane integrity (83.22 ± 4.82%), acrosomal integrity (73 ± 6.187%) and normal sperm morphology (53.22 ± 5.6%) were assessed. Thus, this study demonstrates that urethral catheterization after pharmacological ejaculation using dexmedetomidine-ketamine association can be performed in dogs and it may be possible to obtain good semen quality, despite urine contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Henrique Kuczmarski
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil.
| | - Marisol Alves de Barros
- Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Luiz Felipe Souza de Lima
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Tathiana Ferguson Motheo
- Postgraduate Program in Animal Science, Faculty of Agronomy and Zootechinic, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Heitor José Bento
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Gabriella Accardi Iglesias
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Dábila Araújo Sônego
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
| | - Regina Celia Rodrigues da Paz
- Wildlife Research Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Mato Grosso, Cuiabá, 78060-900, Brazil
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Plasma Concentration Rise after the Intramuscular Administration of High Dose Medetomidine (0.13 mg/kg) for Semen Collection in Cats. Vet Sci 2020; 7:vetsci7010017. [PMID: 32028578 PMCID: PMC7157624 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci7010017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
High dose medetomidine 0.13 mg/kg can be used for semen collection in cats with variable results in terms of quantity and quality. Therefore, a variation in terms of distribution and elimination among patients has been hypothesised. The aim of the study was to characterise the pharmacokinetics of medetomidine (0.13 mg/kg) administered intramuscularly (IM) in healthy male cats. Eighteen male cats undergoing castration were included, and medetomidine (0.13 mg/kg) was administered IM. Venous blood samples were collected at 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 75 and 90 minutes after medetomidine administration. Before orchiectomy, at T20, sperm collection was attempted. Plasma medetomidine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. Semen collection was successful in 15/18 cats. The medetomidine plasma concentration following the IM administration of a bolus was best described using a non-compartment model. Time of maximum concentration was observed at 40 minutes (range 20–90); maximum concentration was 32.8 ng/mL (range 26.8–51.2). The median apparent clearance was 11.9 mL/kg/minute (range 0.7–43.8). In conclusion, medetomidine administered IM at 0.13 mg/kg reached its peak plasma concentration slowly and with variability among patients. In addition, it was characterised by low total body clearance probably due to the cardiovascular alterations associated with medetomidine administration.
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Furthner E, Cordonnier N, Le Dudal M, Fontbonne A, Freiche V. Is electroejaculation a safe procedure in cats? An endoscopic and histological prospective blinded study. Theriogenology 2018; 119:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.06.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/18/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Characterization and cryopreservation of Amur leopard cats (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) semen collected by urethral catheterization. Theriogenology 2018; 119:91-95. [PMID: 29982141 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Revised: 06/07/2018] [Accepted: 06/08/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The Amur leopard cat (Prionailurus bengalensis euptilurus) is a globally endangered species, and there is thus an urgent need to increase its population. The objectives of this study were to: (1) confirm the utility of urethral catheterization (UC) for semen collection from Amur leopard cats; (2) investigate proper dilution media for fresh semen; and (3) investigate the effectiveness of sperm cryopreservation, including examining the effect of glycerol concentration. Six adult males in captivity (mean weight 5.03 ± 0.44 kg, aged 2-6 years) were included. All study procedures were performed during the breeding season (February to April) over two consecutive years. Semen samples (n = 28) were collected four or five times from each animal (four times for two animals and five times for four animals) by UC under general anaesthesia, and their characteristics (including sperm motility) were evaluated. First, the sperm motility in semen diluted in Ham's F-10 or phosphate buffer saline (PBS) was compared. Next, semen diluted with TEST-yolk buffer containing 2%, 4%, or 6% glycerol was frozen in a liquid nitrogen tank, and sperm motility and acrosome integrity were evaluated after thawing. No difference in motility was observed between sperm diluted in Ham's F-10 and PBS. The percentages of sperm motility and kinetic values in semen frozen in 2% or 4% glycerol were higher than those in semen stored in 6% glycerol. In conclusion, the UC method for semen collection is recommendable for Amur leopard cats and should be useful for artificial insemination. Although sperm motility decreased after thawing, samples thus preserved may be usable for advanced reproductive techniques, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection or in-vitro fertilization.
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Pisu MC, Ponzio P, Rovella C, Baravalle M, Veronesi MC. Usefulness of an injectable anaesthetic protocol for semen collection through urethral catheterisation in domestic cats. J Feline Med Surg 2017; 19:1087-1090. [PMID: 27856784 PMCID: PMC11110997 DOI: 10.1177/1098612x16679589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
Objectives Although less often requested in comparison with dogs, the collection of semen in cats can be necessary for artificial insemination, for semen evaluation in tom cats used for breeding and for semen storage. Urethral catheterisation after pharmacological induction with medetomidine has proved to be useful for the collection of semen in domestic cats. However, most of the previously used protocols require the administration of high doses of medetomidine that can increase the risk of side effects, especially on the cardiovascular system. In routine clinical practice, one safe and useful injectable anaesthetic protocol for short-term clinical investigations or surgery in cats involves premedication with low intramuscular doses of dexmedetomidine with methadone, followed by intravenous propofol bolus injection. We aimed to assess the usefulness of this injectable anaesthetic protocol for semen collection, via urethral catheterisation, in domestic cats. Methods The study was performed on 38 purebred, adult cats, during the breeding season, and semen was collected via urethral catheterisation using an injectable anaesthesia protocol with methadone (0.2 mg/kg) and dexmedetomidine (5 µg/kg) premedication, followed by induction with propofol. Results The anaesthetic protocol used in the present study allowed the collection of large-volume semen samples, characterised by good parameters and without side effects. Conclusions and relevance The results from the present study suggest that the injectable anaesthetic protocol using methadone and dexmedetomidine premedication, followed by induction with propofol, could be suitable and safe for the collection of a good-quality semen sample, via urethral catheterisation, in domestic cats. It can therefore be used as an alternative to previous medetomidine-based sedation protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patrizia Ponzio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Turin, Turin, Italy
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