Camelid Parturition - Anatomy & Physiology
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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.