Epidemiological survey and risk factors associated with hydrometra in dairy goat herds

• Published in: Small ruminant research 2019-09, Vol.178, p.79-84
• Main Authors: Maia, A.L.R.S., Silva, M.R., Brandão, F.Z., Souza-Fabjan, J.M.G., Faria, L.S., Côrtes, L.R., Facó, O., Fonseca, J.F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Caprine; Infertility; Pseudopregnancy; Reproductive efficiency; Ultrasonography
• ISSN: 0921-4488; 1879-0941
• DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2019.08.006

•Hydrometra is the most important reproductive disorder in dairy goats.•A cross-sectional study was done with dairy goats from southeast region of Brazil.•This was the first epidemiological survey about risk factors associated to hydrometra in Brazil.•Goats were examined by transrectal ultrasound and the prevalence found was 9.2%.•Age, breed, hormonal induction of estrus and herd size are risk factors. The aim of this study was to investigate epidemiological features of hydrometra in dairy goats. A cross-sectional study was carried out with 1,604 dairy goats from 21 farms in the Southeastern region of Brazil. Goats were examined by transrectal ultrasound (US) in order to determine the prevalence of hydrometra. To survey risk factors, it was applied an epidemiological questionnaire with questions about general farm characteristics, technological resources, goat performance records, and the management of reproduction, health, and nutrition. The prevalence of hydrometra was 9.2% (147/1,604). The variables associated with hydrometra in the univariate analysis were: age (P = 0.012); Saanen breed (P = 0.003); hormonal induced estrus (P = 0.0029); size of the herd (P = 0.0014); production system (P  = 0.0080); duration of lactation (P = 0.0166); presence of dogs and/or cats in the herd (P = 0.0306); dogs and/or cats eating placenta or fetal remains (P = 0.0035); CAEV control (P = 0.0012) and absence of veterinary medical assistance (P