ENDOMETRITIS

Endometritis is a localised infection of the lining of the uterus, which is inflamed with white pus mixed with mucus discharging from the uterus, 21 days or more after calving. Most cows have bacterial contamination in the uterus after calving , which is normally eliminated over time.

Uterine contraction and the cow’s own immune system are very effective at clearing out the bacterial load.

‘AT RISK’ cows have reduced defences and so, endometritis occurs

We can identify the ‘at risk’ cow.

• RETAINED PLACENTA
• TWINS
• ASSISTED CALVING
• DEAD CALF
• VULVAL DISCHARGE
• MILK FEVER

WHY SHOULD I BE CONCERNED?

Infection results in a slower recovery of the uterus following calving.

It delays the start of ovarian activity resulting in increased time to first service, lower submission rates and lower pregnancy rates.

Endometritis reduces the chance of a successful insemination and increases the chances of culling due to failure to conceive.

So you will have losses due to increased days open, increased insemination costs, fewer calves and early culling.

One in five cattle will contract endometritis this year.

WHAT CAN I DO?

• Be PROACTIVE
• Pick out your ʻAT RISKʼ cows, not just when you see ʻwhitesʼ.
• Present these animals for a pre-breeding examination.
• Rapid and effective treatment will minimise the financial loss caused by endometritis going untreated.