Prolapse occurs most commonly in cattle and sheep. As we come into autumn and towards lambing and calving time for many livestock owners, it is important to be vigilant and aware of preventative measures for what can be a high animal welfare issue.
There are two types of prolapse – vaginal and uterine.
Vaginal Prolapse
Vaginal prolapse occurs most commonly during the last month of pregnancy due to straining or loosening of the pelvic tissues approaching birth. The vagina is pushed out of the vulva and appears as a protruding mass of tissue
Predisposing factors which can increase the risk of vaginal prolapse include:
- Genetics
- Age – older animals who have given birth before
- Over fat animals
- Twins or triplet births
- Not enough exercise
- Diets high in oestrogen
- Low blood calcium
- Tail Lengths – tails which are docked too close to a sheep’s body decrease nerve control to the structures around the base of the tail.
Treatment for vaginal prolapse should commence immediately, ideally by a vet. Prolapsed tissue is at risk of inflammation, drying and necrosis. Keep the protruding tissue clean and free from damage as much as possible.
Harnesses, T-piece retainers and sutures are all viable treatment options along with appropriate antibiotics and anti-inflammatories.
Prevent prolapse by culling affected animals from your flock/herd as well as managing the age of your breeding animals. A ewe that has prolapsed has a very high chance of re-prolapsing if they are re-bred. Tail dock sheep at the appropriate length as lambs – below the third joint space also helps.
Uterine Prolapse
Uterine prolapse occurs post-lambing as a result of prolonged labour or difficulty lambing. the uterus is pushed out through the vulva and varies from partial to complete prolapse.
In the case of a uterine prolapse, a veterinarian should be consulted immediately and the uterus kept clean and protected from damage until the vet arrives. Unless the uterus is correctly placed back in the abdomen, the animal will continue to strain and may re-prolapse.
Manage uterine prolapses by careful observation during birth and identifying any animals having difficultly. Use proper techniques if pulling a lamb or calf and be careful not to apply excessive traction when pulling the baby animal. Consult your vet if unsure.
Supplying calcium pre lambing or calving can also assist with reducing the likelihood of prolapses.