Figure 1. Photograph showing a laparotomy on a post-cesarean section cow. The green substance is a topical antimicrobial spray that helps prevent infection. Photo credit: Dr. Jonathan Statham, Merck Veterinary Manual.

Figure 2. A 51 kg bull calf delivered by cesarean section. Photo credit: Katherine Kennedy.

Figure 3. Calf-pulling chains. Photo credit: Heather Thomas, Angus Beef Bulletin.

Bovine Cesarean Section

Published: April 5, 2022

The typical neonatal calf weighs between 27 kg and 45 kg.

Sometimes prenatal calves grow abnormally large, making it difficult for dams to expel them from the birth canal. To avoid having large calves become stuck during delivery, veterinarians deliver them instead by making surgical incisions in the abdomen and uterus of the dam (Figure 1).

This week, I helped deliver a mammoth calf (51 kg) by cesarean section (Figure 2).

After the veterinarian had administered an epidural to the dam, surgical incisions were made in its abdomen and uterus. The neonate was then removed from its mother with calf-pulling chains (Figure 3). Finally, sutures were used to close the incisions in the dam.

The experience was so remarkable that it has made production animal health the veterinary field in which I plan to specialize.

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