Cow Anals A cow’s anus is designed solely to expel waste products, not take in substances. A strong set of sphincter muscles protect them against accidentally taking in anything via their anus; additionally, since its connection does not connect directly to their respiratory system it reduces any risk of drowning through accidential ingestion.
To effectively perform a rectal exam on a dairy cow, the handler must be familiar with proper techniques. The goal is to locate their cervix through their intestinal wall so artificial insemination can occur without issue – increasing pregnancy rates in dairy herds and improving pregnancy rates overall.
Clean hands must gently and carefully press a cow’s rectum into position until there is sufficient room to insert both hands comfortably into its recess. When this process has been completed, be prepared for an occasional kick from the animal – be quick in your approach if time is of essence and ensure the animal doesn’t become distressed during this procedure.
Rectal prolapse (RP) occurs when the rectal mucosa protrudes externally beyond the anus. It may occur partially, with only lower-layer rectolith protruding externally beyond the anus; or completely protrusion that affects all layers of rectolith protrusion. Common causes for RP include diarrhea and weakness of rectal support tissue within pelvis; it may also result from excessive “riding” during estrus or spinal lymphoma or related conditions like spinal abscesses or degenerative myelopathy among older animals.