Cervical Prolapse

A common and important condition in pregnant ewes. Although no one knows the exact cause for this condition, there are many predisposing factors including:

• breed
• bulky feed
• oestrogens in diet (high clover content)
• short tail docking
• over-conditioning
• chronic coughing
• lack of exercise when housed
• calcium deficiency

Treatment involves replacing the prolapsed by inserting plastic retainers or "spoons" to try to prevent recurrence. Many farmers find that giving some calcium under the skin also helps.
Remember that an animal that has prolapsed once is likely to prolapse in subsequent pregnancies and so these animals should be culled, once they have reared their offspring.
 

VETERINARY ASSISTANCE SHOULD BE SOUGHT IF THE PROLAPSE IS DIFFICULT TO REPLACE, IS DAMAGED IN ANY WAY OR IF IT OCCURS REPEATEDLY.