Ruptured blood vessel (at farrowing)
8 November 2018
6 minute read
Background and history
This is often seen post farrowing and can be life threatening. The blood may be fresh and bright red indicating fresh haemorrhage or dark brown previous haemorrhage.
Clinical signs
Sows
- Blood from the vulva or vagina evident.
- Blood in faeces.
- Blood in urine.
- Pale pig.
- Rapid breathing.
- Dehydration.
Piglets, weaners and growers
- Rare
Diagnosis
Identify the source of the haemorrhage and ligature if possible.
Causes
- Damaged vulva.
- Ruptured blood vessel at farrowing.
- Acute cystitis.
- Dead piglet in the womb.
- Haemorrhage from the umbilical cord.
Treatment
- If a fresh haemorrhage, apply pressure
- See vulval haematoma for treatment
- See also cystitis
- Give anticoagulents - vitamin K
