• Cervix fails to dilate and the uterus continues to contract.
  • Impossible to pass the offspring, which will die without intervention.

Causes

  • Lack or failure of Prostaglandin release
  • Lack of cervical Prostaglandin receptors
  • Cervix has become fibrous, common in older animals. If this is the case, dilation is impossible despite treatment.

Treatment

  • Prostaglandin analogues with a prolonged gentle manual massage of the cervix.
  • Caesarian section if the problem is lack of receptors or fibrosis.