Veterinary Andrology and Reproductive Techniques

PRECAUTION TO BE TAKEN TO MAINTAIN SEMEN QUALITY

• The AV or containers used for semen collection should be clean and free from contaminants that might injure sperms such as alcohol, excessive petroleum jelly, powder present on new liners and antiseptics and chemicals of any kind.
• At the time of collection excessive dirt and debris should be kept out of AV. Water and urine adversely affects sperms. Excessive blood and serum also affect the semen quality.
• Immediately after collection the semen vial should be placed in a water bath at 34°C.

In bulls, the difference between body temperature and testicular temperature is 4^oC. Therefore the semen is kept at 34°C till it is assessed for its quality.

• Overheating and rapid chilling of semen should be avoided as it affects the semen quality.
• Too much agitation and shaking of semen should be avoided.
• Exposure of semen to sunlight should be avoided.