Recognizing any problems outside of the “normal” calving process is paramount in getting more live calves on the ground with a vigorous start. Typically, a cow will breeze through the three broad stages of labor, requiring no more assistance than a clean and comfortable place to give birth to her calf. This blog is written in the context of cattle, but is fitting for small ruminants as well.
Animal Health Information
Identifying Ophthalmic Cancer in Cattle
Heritage Animal Health
Identifying Ophthalmic Cancer in Cattle Eye problems can arise quickly in cattle and require immediate attention. The sooner a problem is diagnosed, the better the chances for a favorable outcome. Cancer of the eye or surrounding structures can be “cured” if recognized and treated early. If left untreated, tumors affecting the eye and surrounding tissues can metastasize: spread to other areas of the body. Once the lymph nodes under the jaw and neck region are affected with cancer cells, the cow will likely succumb to a shortened lifespan and eminent carcass condemnation.
Managing At - Risk Piglets
Heritage Animal Health
Part 2: Feeding Orphaned Piglets Orphaned piglets are born from many unfortunate circumstances. While it can be a daunting task to raise a litter of piglets or even a single neonatal pig, the time commitment can certainly lead to rewarding outcomes. Rearing orphaned piglets is similar to the old adage, “There are 100 ways to skin a cat.” As gross as that may sound, it rings true for raising baby pigs. If there was one scientifically proven, wildly successful or foolproof way to do it, we would all be doing it. My new mantra is, “There are 100 ways to raise an orphaned piglet.” Ah, that is better.
As useless as Teats on a Boar- selecting for Teat Numbers in Swine
Heritage Animal Health
Euphemisms are very common in farm life: the early bird gets the worm, don’t count your chickens before they hatch, and why buy the milk if you own the cow? My favorite euphemism is “as useless as teats on a boar.” What??? This is preposterous; teats are very important in the breeding world of pigs. While the euphemism is somewhat true, it does not matter how many teats we find on a boar’s belly. What matters is the number and placement of teats that he will genetically pass down to his daughters.