Spaying heifers

[kenny thomas]

There are a few risks. The culpotomy tool has to cut through the wall of the vagina to get to the ovary, so there's a chance of introducing infection. Cutting off the ovary comes with a chance of fatal bleeding, not unlike castration. The risk goes up in older heifers. Finally, an unskilled operator can accidentally cut things other than the ovary. Accidentally perforating the bowel doesn't usually end well for the animal.

In the hands of a skilled veterinarian the death loss can be extremely low. If you're having someone who hasn't done it or rarely does it, I'd just make sure you have a good understanding of who takes responsibility if things don't go well.

Thanks, all good points.

 

[sstterry]

The culpotomy tool has to cut through the wall of the vagina to get to the ovary....

If you are cutting through the vaginal wall, I assume it has to be stitched back up or cauterized, is that correct?
It sounds like a more involved surgery that would cost more than a few bucks.

 

[Buck Randall]

If you are cutting through the vaginal wall, I assume it has to be stitched back up or cauterized, is that correct?
It sounds like a more involved surgery that would cost more than a few bucks.

It's left to heal on it's own.

 

[kenny thomas]

Older thread but Buck or whoever, is there a maximum size the spaying can be done.

 

[Buck Randall]

Older thread but Buck or whoever, is there a maximum size the spaying can be done.

My understanding is that it's a lot like cutting bulls; there's no absolute limit, but the risks go up as they get bigger and older.