Prodromal signs of birth in Holando females

Its practical usefulness

Abstract

With the objective to contribute to the management and care of partirution, two hundred and forty observations were performed on 40 animals (27 cows and 13 heifers) of a commercial dairy herd of the Paysandú province. Signs studied were: pelvic ligaments relaxation (inspection), first proof (palpation), udder replenishment (inspection and palpation), external genitalia enlargement (inspection), abdominal muscles relaxation (inspection) and presence of genital scourings (inspection), them through an adapted Ewbank's scale were scored. The results obtained showed: pelvic ligaments degree 3 (maximum relaxation), and "fist" 3 (easy entrance of the fist between the tail and isquiatic tuberosity) in both groups, would be seen 24 hours antepartum, being more evident in cows. Udder 3 (maximum distension) was observed 36 hours before parturition in cows and previously in heifers. Vulva 3 (maximum relaxation and enlargement) was seen 48 hours antepartum in both groups. Relaxation of abdominal muscles and vaginal discharge were evident 96 hours before calving. Indexes used were: Index 1 (sacro-ciatic ligaments + fist proof + udder + vulva), Index 2 (index 1 + abdominal muscles relaxation + genital scourings), Index 3 (index 2-index 1). Significative statistical correlations for them were found, being Index 1 the most accurate for multiparous.