Induced parturition in cattle. 1. Clinical studies.

Parturition was induced in 17 Friesland heifers to decrease the possible occurrence of dystocia. The heifers were given 39 mg dexamethasone intra-muscularly on the 267th day of pregnancy and were observed for signs of impending parturition. The time of foetal membrane expulsion was noted. Parturition occurred on an average of 57 hours after corticosteroid administration. Three heifers required assistance during parturition. In one case a second injection of dexamethazone had to be given. The incidence of retained placenta was 68,8%. Rectal examination five to seven months after induction revealed that 76,5% of all animals were again pregnant. Of the four non-pregnant animals three had received assistance during parturition.