Metritis in Cows
What is Metritis in Cows?
Metritis in cows is a serious uterine infection that occurs shortly after calving, typically within the first 5–7 days. It is caused by bacterial contamination of the uterus during or after calving and is one of the most common post-calving diseases affecting dairy herds.
This condition leads to inflammation of the uterus, impacting the cow’s health, recovery, and future fertility. If not managed correctly, metritis can delay the return to normal cycling, reduce conception rates, and increase the number of repeat breeders in the herd.
Symptoms of Metritis in Cows
- Dullness
- Reduced feed intake
- Chills and fever
- Dehydration
- Lower milk yield
- Discoloured and pungent discharge
Causes of Metritis in Cows
- Cows that are over condition at calving will be at higher risk of developing metritis.
- Difficult births are also closely aligned with metritis.
Problems from Metritis in Cows
- Like most metabolic disorders post-calving, metritis will have a negative effect on milk production, and if it is left untreated it can have long term implications on the cow’s production cycle or can even result in death.
- Metritis can also be closely associated with retained cleanings, abortions and can be an issue at breeding time.
Once a cow is identified to have metritis, it is important to seek veterinary advice immediately. Treatment of Metritis will require a broad spectrum long-acting antibiotic into the inflamed uterus.
Best practices to minimise the risk of Metritis are
- Adequate transition diet to meet energy requirements post calving
- Good hygiene practices at calving where handling is necessary
- Clean & dry calving pens
- Clean cubicle beds
- Proper Dry cow mineral program
- Ensure correct body condition at calving
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