Ask the Vet

Preg Test Choices

The decision between traditional pregnancy testing through palpation, or using a simple blood test, can sometimes hinge on convenience.(Progressive Farmer image by Claire Vath)

QUESTION: We have a few cows that are not cycling to fit our breeding season, and we want to sell them. The buyer wants to be sure they are pregnant. What do you think about blood testing as proof of pregnancy?

ANSWER: While the per-test cost may be higher than rectal palpation, the total cost to you to do a few head may well be less. All that is needed is a few milliliters of blood. There are negatives that must be considered, however. There is no immediate result, and stage of pregnancy or viability of the fetus cannot be determined.

(SK)

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