Parturient behaviour and placental characteristics of Bos indicus cows

Abstract

Signs of imminent calving, parturient behaviour and placental characteristics were studied in Ethiopian Highland zebu cows. Vulva swelling, pelvic ligament relaxation and udder enlargement were consistent signs of impending parturition observed 6.2 ± 4.0, 2.5 ± 1.9 and 1.6 ± 0.9 days before calving, respectively. Vaginal mucus discharge was observed 9.2 ± 4.8 days before calving in 52.6 % of the cows. The detection rate for signs of impending delivery was therefore 77.6 %. Mean interval from restlessness and from labour onset to calving were 3.72 ± 2.01 and 2.41 ± 1.37 h, respectively. The length of time from restlessness to appearance of the allantochorion (stage 1), from the appearance of foetal membranes to calving (stage II) and from calving to placenta expulsion (stage III) was 2.58 ± 1.93, 1.32 ± 0.9 and 2.50 ± 1.14 hours, respectively. Average duration from the appearance of the allantochorion to delivery was longer for male calves (1.55 ± 1.05 vs 0.83 ± 0.42 h, respectively). Mean calf birth weight was 20.8 ± 2.6 kg. Calf birth weight increased with gestation length (r = 0.52, P < 0.5) and placenta weight (r = 0.15). It is concluded that if the service date is known, the time of impending delivery can be predicted and necessary obstetrical assistance given to avoid dystocia in Ethiopian zebu cows.