Abstract

Separate trials were conducted to investigate the effects of a synthetic progestagen - medroxyprogesterone acetate (MPA) - on red deer stags at 2 different stages of the antler growth cycle. MPA treatment of 2 stags from the time of harvest of 'A-grade' velvet stimulated the growth of additional sets of antlers in each case. This treatment also reduced blood testosterone levels and prevented the seasonal increase in testicular size. Alternatively, MPA treatment applied to 6 stages during their hard antler phase (winter) caused premature casting of the antler buttons in all animals. These findings indicate a possible role of MPA or similar compounds for the artificial manipulation of antler growth under farming conditions.

PF, Fennessy, GJ Greer, and JJ Bass

Proceedings of the New Zealand Society of Animal Production, Volume 42, , 137-140, 1982