Manejo reprodutivo de pequenos animais.

Abstract

The population of small animals in Brazil increases day by day, and areas related to this market is experiencing an important development, like reproductive management, and the use of reproductive biotechnologies applied to the reproduction of dogs and cats. The objective of this study was to conduct a literature review on the techniques of reproductive management in breeding dogs and cats in order to contribute to the knowledge of techniques used in assisted reproduction in these species. Females in anoestrus may have estrus with the use of hormones stimulating ovulation. However, excessive production of puppies has led to them abandonment or sacrifice. Because of this, the fertility control is essential to prevent unwanted pregnancy, by surgical methods or medication or with the use of nonsteroidal contraceptive hormones. Nowadays, biotechnologies are coupled with the reproduction of small animals, especially artificial insemination. This technique can be used as an alternative when the impossibility of natural mating, due to anatomical, behavior or health problems, or the necessity to use cooled or frozen semen. The insemination with cooled or frozen semen thawed programming requires a more sophisticated technique and adjusted to ensure successful conception. Therefore, a lot of methods have been developed for the purpose of providing semen into the uterus: transvaginal, intrauterine or transcervical insemination, and others. So, in accordance what has been discussed in this review, the conclusion that it is extremely important knowledge about the reproductive management of small animals and knowledge of reproductive physiology of them. Understanding the endocrinology and their interrelationships, and how reproductive function is influenced by the hormonal environment, with a critical role in the performance of the animal , bitches and cats have special features that are not observed in other species.