TETANUS IN SOKOTO RED GOAT FOLLOWING CAESARIAN SECTlON

Abstract

Caesarian section (hysterectomy) is mostly performed as a surgical removal of a fu IIterm foetus or foetuses other than by the normal vaginal route of pregnant fe- males. A number of complications of caesarian sec- tion in does have been reported (Gyang, 1991), these include metritis, pyometra, abdominal adhesions and wound dehiscence. Tetanus is a common post-operative complication in horses although it is also found in other large animals and in man (Gyang, 1991; Radostit et 01., J 997). Mor- tality from tetanus is highest in ruminants at 80%. In cattle, the disease is associated with parturition or sur- gical intervention. In pigs, sheep and goats, it is asso- ciated with castration, infection of the umblicus, or dehorning or disbudding. In fully developed tetanus the muscular spasms, the prolapse of the third eyelid and a recent history of accidental injury or surgery are characteristic findings.