Stage of Estrous Cycle During Ovulation in Cattle

In cattle, ovulation occurs in which stage of the estrous cycle?

Correct Answer: Metestrus

In cattle, ovulation occurs approximately 12–14 hours after the END of estrus — which places it at the beginning of the metestrus stage. This is unique among domestic animals, as most other species ovulate during estrus.

Stages of the Estrous Cycle

• Pro-estrus: Follicle growth, rising estrogen, uterine hyperemia — preparation for heat
• Estrus (Heat): Peak estrogen, sexual receptivity, standing reflex — lasts 12–24 hours in cattle
• Metestrus: Post-estrus phase — ovulation occurs here in cattle, CL begins to form; metestrus bleeding (due to estrogen withdrawal) may occur
• Diestrus: Dominant progesterone phase, active CL, preparation of uterus for implantation

Practical Implication

Since ovulation occurs in metestrus (after estrus ends), inseminating mid-heat (standing heat) allows sperm to capacitate and reach the oviduct in time to meet the ovum upon ovulation in early metestrus.