Ask the Vet

Dr. Ken McMillan, Contributing Columnist

READER QUESTION:

We have had several cows with retained placenta this season. Do you have any idea what is going on? How do you suggest we treat them? Some say pull it out, and another person said to tie a stick on it to help slowly pull it out. So, I am confused.

DR. KEN MCMILLAN'S ANSWER:

This is a common question we have discussed here in the past, but it is never a bad topic to review. It is a common problem with lots of misinformation.

I do not consider a placenta to be retained for at least three days, and I do not recommend treatment unless the cow is visibly sick. I have infused many cows and used oxytocin and Lutalyse over the years, but there is little evidence that any of this is beneficial. A retained placenta needs a controlled infection within the uterus for the fetal tissues to release from the uterus. Antibiotics either injectable or intrauterine can slow this infection down and actually slow the release of the placenta. If the cow is sick, injectable antibiotics may be indicated. Please check with your veterinarian for his or her recommendation about which antibiotic to use. With very sick cows, I will occasionally infuse with a warm dilute Betadine solution to remove the toxic fluids. Oral or intravenous fluids may also help if the cow is dehydrated.

The more important question is, why does this happen? Retained placentas are more common if cows are too thin or too fat. Poor nutrition can also be involved. Make sure your cattle are getting adequate protein and energy, and are on a high-quality mineral. We know low vitamin E and selenium increase the risk of retained placenta. Low calcium or magnesium around birth can lead to weak or "downer" cattle, which increases retention. Twins, difficult birth and abortion are also factors.

So, look at your nutrition program and the body condition of your cows. Select bulls to minimize dystocia. Investigate the cause of abortions. And, be patient. Most placentas will pass with time.

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Editor's Note: Please contact your veterinarian with questions about the health of your herd or other animals. Every operation is unique, and the information in this column does not pertain to all situations. This is not intended as medical advice but is purely for informational purposes. Email Dr. Ken McMillan at vet@dtn.com.

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