Sperm collection by electroejaculation in small ruminants: A review on welfare problems and alternative techniques

Abstract

There are different perspectives on whether there should be use of electroejaculation (EE) for semen collection because it can be stressful and painful for the males when this technique is imposed. In the present review it is examined 1) the effects of EE on animal welfare and semen quality in domestic and wild small ruminants, 2) benefits and limitations of administering anaesthetics and sedatives prior to EE, 3) advantages/disadvantages of transrectal ultrasonic-guided massage of the accessory sex glands (TUMASG) as an alternative to EE, and 4) benefits of administering hormones, such as oxytocin or PGF2α analogues (which stimulate the contractility of the male accessory sex glands), prior to EE and TUMASG. In general, the administration of anaesthetics, sedatives or hormones reduces the pain and stress caused by EE, and can improve sperm quality, but results may vary depending on the species. The use of anaesthetics is, however, not devoid of risks and pre-EE administration of sedatives, or oxytocin or PGF2α analogues, can aid sperm collection mitigate risks. The TUMASG is less stressful than EE, but its effectiveness varies greatly among species, and it can only be performed by trained personnel. Prior administration of the hormones may also result in a reduction in the period needed to induce ejaculation with use of TUMASG procedures.

Keywords: Animal wellbeing; Caprine; Distress; Ejaculation; Ovine.