The Administration of Flumethasone by Three Different Routes, Its Measurement in the Plasma, and Some Effects on Wool Growth in Merino Wethers

Flumethasone was administered to Merino wethers via intravenous, intraruminal, and subcutaneous routes to study its effects on wool growth. Plasma concentrations were highest with intravenous administration, followed by subcutaneous and intraruminal. The hormone caused wool shedding, with complete shedding observed at higher doses and partial shedding at lower doses. Wool growth recovery was generally observed within 60 days post-treatment, though some delays were noted. The study also noted temporary feed refusals in some sheep, particularly at higher infusion rates. The findings suggested potential applications for wool harvesting and provided insights into the metabolic effects of flumethasone.