Artificial Induction of Lactation in Ewes: The Relative Importance of Oxytocin and the Milking Stimulus

Abstract

Eight ovariectomized and four intact ewes were given oestrogen plus progesterone to develop the mammary glands. The intact ewes (group A) and four ovariectomized ewes (group B) then received four injections each day of 1 i.u. syntocinon for 5 days whereas the other four ovariectomized ewes (group C) received placebo injections of 0·9 % saline. Milking commenced the day after the last of these injections.