University:
Sam Houston State University
Course:
BIOL 2413 | General Zoology
Academic year:

2021
Views:

290

Pages:

15
Author:

larbiwxcvbn

Dystocia Calving or birthing difficulty Dystocia Normal delivery should be completed within two to three hours after the water sac appears in heifers, and one to two hours in cows. If prolonged, the calf may be born dead or in a weakened condition. Steps in calving assistance After a delay in the delivery, you should: 1. Conduct a pelvic exam Vulva and rectum should be scrubbed, hands and arms should be clean and an OB sleeve should be worn 2. Determine position of fetus Some abnormal positions Some abnormal positions Some abnormal positions Steps in calving assistance 3. Examine size of the calf relative to the birth canal.   If too big can paralyze cow If determined early, a successful C-section can be done 4. Attach obstetrical chains to the front legs    Loop of each chain around each leg Slide chain up on the cannon bone 2-3 inches above the ankle joints and dew claws Ensure chain pulls from bottom of the leg (dew claw side) Proper placement of OB chains Proper use of OB chains Proper use of OB chains Improper use of force! Starting the calf Starting the calf Clear the airways and clean mucus from mouth area Stimulate the calf by rubbing vigorously If necessary give artificial respiration Post-delivery Problems Uterine Prolapse Inversion of uterus Caused by prolonged labor Difficult birth Excessive traction Subclinical milk fever Should be treated as emergency Post-delivery Problems Retained placenta If not treated – poses health threat to cow and will cause problems with rebreeding Wait 48 hours – give injectable antibiotics along with uterine boluses or uterine infusions – observe closely for signs of infection