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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: a '''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==
Foetomaternal disproportion is one of the major contributors to dystocia, and this can be prevented with proper reproductive management.
Foetomaternal disproportion is one of the major contributors to dystocia, and this can be prevented with proper reproductive management.
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.