Bitch reproductive cycle Flashcards
when does the onset of a cycle start for a bitch?
Between 6 and 23 months of age, with most bitches having their first oestrus by the age of 12-14 months
what does polytocus mean?
numerous offspring in each litter
how many oestrus cycles do bitches have a year?
one to two
how long is the interval between each oestrus cycle?
between 5-13 months
how long does the pro-oestrus phase last in a bitch?
between 7-10 days
how long does the oestrus phase last in a bitch?
7-10 days
how long does the luteal phase last in a bitch?
2 months
how long does the anoestrus phase last in a bitch?
4.5 months
how is the beginning of an oestrus cycle signified?
presence of a season with bloody vulval discharge and vulval swelling
what does the season refer to?
the period of pro-oestrus and oestrus
when will the bitch not allow mating?
Pro-oestrus period
when does oestrus end?
with spontaneous ovulation
when is the bitch receptive to a male dog?
when ovulating
what are some characteristic behaviours that the bitch will show to the male dog?
- deviation of the tail
- presentation of the vulva and perineum
what is the early luteal phase called?
metoestrus
what is the mature luteal phase called?
dioestrus
where is prolactin released from and what is it responsible for?
- released from the pituitary gland
- responsible for the development of mammary tissue and the onset of lactation
what is the reason for pseudopregnancy?
prolactin being released in pregnant and non-pregnant bitches
