CATTLE CRADLE
Dr N Sukesan

May not be new to old vets and may not be old to new vets!. But, is one of the successful methods in the field. Downer cows need a support after 2-3 days. Gunny bags and ropes tied upon wooden pillars and frames are practiced. In most cases the gunny bags are slipped off by struggling of cows and if it occurs during night time it may die due to respiratory failure.

To prevent the slipping of gunny bags it can be fixed over legs by putting two incisions at either end of the gunny bags to introduce the limbs through the incisions up to the shoulder for fore limbs and up to thigh for hind limbs. Total three gunny bags are required. 2 for the limbs and 1 at abdominal region. The corners of gunny bags are tied with ropes. Minimum 10 persons are required for the operation. 4 pillars and 2 cross bars on either side just above the height of cow can be made by tying with ropes. The place must be preferably level ground outside the cow shed.





Introduce the limbs through the cut holes of the gunny bags by slight rolling to lateral recumbancy. Arrange the 3 gunny bags spread underneath the body and hold the ropes properly. Bring the animal to sternal recumbancy and lift the cow by holding the ropes over the side bars. Lift the body up to a height sufficient to allow the limbs touch the ground. Keep the hind limbs in position and if required can be tied with a rope keeping them at normal width. Vet can apply needle point prick pain at the back of animal near the root of tail.





Normally the animal will give weight to the limbs within 10-15 minutes. After lifting the animal, over crowding of people around the animal is not advisable. Give some fresh water and grass. Keep standing full day and let it down at night. If required repeat next day. Please bare in mind that sufficient fluid therapy and supportive treatment must be given before starting the operation.

Dr N Sukesan
Rtd. Senior Veterinary Surgeon.
nsukesan@gmail.com
sukesan1885@yahoo.co.in
Ph: 9447584955