Retained Placenta in Cows
What is Retained Placenta in Cows?
Retained placenta in cows — also known as retained foetal membranes, retained cleanings, or held cleanings — is a common post-calving condition that can impact both cow health and fertility.
It occurs when the calf’s side of the placenta (the foetal membrane) fails to properly separate from the cow’s uterine lining after calving. Under normal conditions, these membranes are expelled shortly after birth. Retained placenta is typically defined as the failure to pass the foetal membranes within 24 hours of calving.
This condition can lead to further complications such as uterine infections, reduced fertility, and delayed return to cycling if not managed correctly.
The cost of retained placenta can be significant, with each case potentially costing up to €300 when you factor in treatment, reduced performance, and knock-on effects on breeding.
Effective transition management, good calving hygiene, and strong mineral nutrition are key to reducing the risk and supporting faster recovery.
Symptoms of Retained Placenta in Cows
- The most common sign of retained placenta in cows is a discoloured and rotting membrane visible from the cow, after calving.
- Occasionally this will remain within the cow and may be signalled by a foul-smelling discharge.
- Both symptoms are usually accompanied by a depressed appetite and milk yield.
Causes of Retained Placenta in Cows
- Subclinical Milk Fever
- Overfat cows
- Selenium/Vitamin E deficiency
- Twins
- Difficult calving
- Premature birth/abortions
- Low immune system
Problems from Retained Placenta in Cows
- Risk of Ketosis
- Risk of Metritis
- Risk of Mastitis
- Increased infertility
- Increased vet and medicine costs
Treating and Preventing Retained Placenta in Cows
In many cases, retained placenta in dairy cows will pass naturally within 4–10 days without intervention. Forced removal is not recommended, as it can damage the uterus and increase the risk of infection. Where necessary, veterinary treatment such as antibiotics may be used to reduce bacterial load and help prevent uterine infections like metritis or endometritis.
Prevention is Key
Preventing retained placenta in cows is far more effective than treatment. Strong transition cow management is critical and should focus on:
- Maintaining dry matter intake (DMI) pre-calving
- Correct body condition score (BCS)
- Clean, dry calving environments
- Managing milk fever in dairy cows
- Supplying key minerals such as magnesium, selenium, and Vitamin E
Mineral nutrition plays a central role in reducing retained foetal membranes and supporting recovery post-calving. Using targeted dry cow minerals in the final 2–3 weeks before calving helps prepare the cow for a smooth transition.
Specialised blends such as Terra NutriTECH Easy Calf are designed to support calving, reduce retained placenta risk, and improve overall cow health.
Precision Delivery Matters
Consistency is critical. Systems like Terra NutriTECH OPIS and Orbvie ensure cows receive the right minerals through water or feed — every day — improving absorption, immunity, and performance.
Use With
Request a Callback
If you’re interested in learning more about the TERRA NutriTECH Mineral Range and Dosing systems, enter your details and one of our team will call you back.
Contact