Delayed Uterine Clearance
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Mar 31, 2011
Delayed Uterine Clearance
The Breeding season is in full swing, and with the season come many challenges. One of those challenges for mares is delayed uterine clearance. In healthy fertile mares the uterus sets off a natural inflammatory response which kills bacteria and clears the uterus of dead sperm. The debris is expelled and the uterus returns to normal within 2 days.
Mares with delayed uterine clearance are unable to clear the uterus. This may lead to chronic or persistent metritis and decreased fertility. The following treatment procedures should be taken to prevent development of this condition:
• Breed with a minimum contamination technique
• Flush with multiple liters of an isotonic solution after breeding
• Infuse with a broad spectrum antibiotic
• Prescribe oxytocin regimen to help clear the uterus
The veterinarians at Conley and Koontz Equine Hospital have seen many problem mares conceive successfully after using these techniques.
Ron Conley, DVM
Conley and Koontz Equine Hospital
Vice President of Client & Employee Development
www.ckequinehospital.com