Dystocia with multiple complications in a White Fulani cow

Abstract

Multiple complications associated with dystocia are common outcomes of oxytocin abuse in managing bovine dystocia by farmers in rural settings. Most of these outcomes are either unreported or under-reported due to the eventual loss of both the dam and foetus. A 6-year-old White Fulani cow weighing 300 kg was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Ibadan, Nigeria, with difficult labour noticed about 4 days before presentation. The owner had reportedly administered 40 IU of Oxytocin intramuscularly before bringing the cow to the clinic. The animal was multiparous and kept under an intensive management system with other cows at the owner’s residence. On physical examination, the cow was weak, recumbent and bloated, with a prolapsed vagina. Clinical examination revealed evidence of hypocalcaemia and dehydration. There was no foetal presentation, and the cervix was tightly closed. The foetus, weighing 28 kg, was successfully delivered by Caesarean section. Post-surgery, the cow retained the placenta and was unable to stand for more than 12 hours. Despite intensive care, the animal died about 18 hours post-surgery. This article describes an emergency Caesarean section in a White Fulani cow that had been previously and unduly exposed to oxytocin resulting in multiple complications.