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==Introduction==
==Introduction==
Dystocia refers to '''abnormal or difficult birth'''.
Dystocia refers to '''abnormal or difficult birth'''.
If the foetus is too large to be delivered vaginally, a '''caesarean operation''' or a '''foetotomy''' should be performed.
If the foetus is too large to be delivered vaginally, a '''caesarean operation''' or a '''foetotomy''' should be performed.
Possible '''treatments''' for the dam include:
:pain relief and anti-inflammatories: an '''[[NSAIDs|NSAID]]''' can be given at the start, short-acting steroids can help reduce swelling and oedema
:'''antibiotics''': given for several days after calving due to the greater likelihood of complications such as retained foetal membranes and metritis
==Prevention==
==Prevention==
Sires can be selected for '''ease of calving''' and estimated birth weights. Many non-genetic factors influence birth weight, such as age of the dam and environment, and so genetic selection is not a fool-proof method of avoiding dystocia.
Sires can be selected for '''ease of calving''' and estimated birth weights. Many non-genetic factors influence birth weight, such as age of the dam and environment, and so genetic selection is not a fool-proof method of avoiding dystocia.
===Early Intervetion===
===Early Intervention===
Not all dystocia can be prevented, such as malpresentations, and '''early intervention''' is paramount in ensuring a live birth.
Not all dystocia can be prevented, such as malpresentations, and '''early intervention''' is paramount in ensuring a live birth.
Frame, N. (2006) '''Management of dystocia in cattle''' ''In Practice'' 28:470-476
Frame, N. (2006) '''Management of dystocia in cattle''' ''In Practice'' 28:470-476
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==Webinars==
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[[Category:Reproductive Diseases - Cattle]]
[[Category:Reproductive Diseases - Cattle]]
[[Category:Expert Review - Farm Animal]]
[[Category:Expert Review - Farm Animal]]