Aborting feedlot heifers with Alfavet® or Bovilene®

Abstract

Alfavet® (alfaprostol), an experimental prostaglandin analog for inducing abortion in feedlot heifers, was evaluated for efficacy. Abortion was induced within 8 days following injection of 5 mg alfaprostol in 45 of 51 heifers (88.2%) ranging from 40 to 150 days in gestation. Bovilene® (fenprostalene), injected at 1 mg per head resulted in abortion in 45 of 49 heifers (91.8%) of similar pregnancy status. Both products were 95-100% effective from 40 to 120 days of pregnancy, but only 75% effective from 121 to 150 days.