Camelid Parturition - Anatomy & Physiology

Stage 1

• Uterine myometrium contracts,pushing the foetus towards the birth canal.
• Cervix is relaxed.
• Lasts 2-6 hours.
• Female will appear restless, urinate and defecate repeatedly. She will also seek isolation from the group.

Stage 2

• Fluid appears around the vulva.
• A 'water bag' and possibly the amnion may also appear around the vulva.
• Bulging of the pereneum.
• Correct presentation is both forelimbs and head first (as in sheep).
• Cria delivered feet first, followed by the head, shoulders and the rest of the body.
• Mother may remain standing throughout, or lie down.
• Normally lasts 5-20 minutes.

Stage 3

• Delivery of the placenta should occur within 2 hours.
• If delivery of the placenta exceeds 6 hours, this is considered abnormal.
• If the placenta does not pass within 24 hours, veterinary intervention is required.

Placenta

• Usually delivered 'inside out'.
  • Should be reddish in colour with a slightly rough surface.
• Occasionally it is reversed.
  • Whitish in colour with a smooth surface.
• Crescent shaped with the pattern of both uterine horns visible.