Management of Dairy Cows Following Induced Parturition, Abortion and Dystocia

Abstract

The induction of parturition with high potency corticoids in dairy cattle at this time can only be considered when in the best judgement of the veterinary practitioner it is of therapeutic value to the individual patient. The label warning of the effective drugs available clearly states that the use in late pregnancy may precipitate premature parturition followed by dystocia, fetal death, retained placenta and metritis. Anyone using these drugs for parturition induction clearly is assuming any liability which may result from such use and presumably has no recourse to the drug manufacturer. The objective of this paper is to discuss the use of products available, their advantages and disadvantages, and the after-care of the individual patient.