Abstract

Background:
Dairy goats are small ruminants with high potential in the livestock industry but are susceptible to mastitis infection, which can reduce milk productivity. Dexamethasone is one therapy used in the treatment of mastitis. Its excessive use can cause oxidative stress, inhibit follicle development, and interfere with reproduction. The stress experienced due to mastitis also increases cortisol hormone levels and decreases LH levels.

Aim:
This study aimed to evaluate the effect of dexamethasone administration on luteinizing hormone (LH) and cortisol levels in dairy goats with subclinical mastitis.

Method:
This research is a laboratory experimental study with completely randomized design. A total of 20 dairy goats with subclinical mastitis were divided into five treatment groups. C- group was given physiological NaCl 0.9%; C+ was given Flunixin Meglumine® 1,5 mg/kgBW, whereas the treatment group was given dexamethasone at a dose of 0.04 mg/kgBW (T1), 0.1 mg/kgBW (T2), and 0.12 mg/kgBW (T3) via intramuscular for five consecutive days. Blood samples were taken from the jugular vein on the sixth day. LH and cortisol levels were tested using an enzyme-linked
immunosorbent assay.

Results:
The administration of dexamethasone at a toxic dose of 0.12 mg/kgBW and Flunixin Meglumine® at a therapeutic dose of 50 mg/kgBW significantly reduced LH levels. In addition, statistical analysis with the one-way ANOVA test showed that dexamethasone administration decreased cortisol levels (p < 0.05). Duncan’s post hoc test showed significant differences between treatment groups and negative and positive controls (p < 0.005).

Conclusion:
Dexamethasone administration to dairy goats with subclinical mastitis can reduce LH and cortisol levels, potentially affecting livestock reproduction and productivity.

Key words: Dairy goats, Subclinical mastitis, Dexamethasone, LH hormone, Cortisol