Vet Pulse Nepal

Main Causes of Abortion in Cows at 5–6 Months of Pregnancy:

1. Brucellosis
This is a bacterial disease caused by Brucella abortus. It’s one of the most common causes of abortion in mid-to-late pregnancy. Cows usually abort between 5 and 7 months. It can also cause retained placenta and is dangerous to humans (zoonotic).

2. Leptospirosis
Caused by Leptospira bacteria, this disease can lead to abortion storms (many cows aborting at once). Other signs include fever, weakness, and sometimes yellowing of the eyes and urine.

3. Infectious Bovine Rhinotracheitis (IBR)
This viral infection is caused by Bovine Herpesvirus-1. Cows may abort suddenly during the 4th to 8th month without showing any visible respiratory signs. It can spread quickly in a herd.

4. Bovine Viral Diarrhea (BVD)
This is a viral disease that affects reproduction. It can cause abortions, birth defects, weak calves, and infertility. Infection during the 5th month often leads to abortion or a deformed calf.

5. Neosporosis
Caused by a protozoan parasite (Neospora caninum), this disease often leads to abortion during mid-gestation. The cow usually shows no other signs, which makes it hard to detect without lab testing.

6. Listeriosis
This is caused by Listeria monocytogenes, often found in spoiled silage (rotten feed). It can lead to abortion as well as nervous system problems like head tilting or circling in affected cows.

7. Campylobacteriosis and Salmonellosis
These bacterial infections are also known to cause mid-term abortions. Salmonella may cause diarrhea in addition to abortion, while Campylobacter affects fertility and conception rates.

Nutritional Causes

A lack of important nutrients like selenium, vitamin E, iodine, calcium, or phosphorus can weaken the pregnancy and lead to abortion.

If the cow is not getting enough energy or protein, the fetus may not develop well and might be lost around the 5–6 month stage.

Toxic Causes

Feeding cows moldy feed or silage containing mycotoxins (toxins produced by fungi) can trigger abortion.

Poisonous plants or high levels of nitrates in forage or water can also cause abortion.

Management & Stress-Related Causes

Trauma from rough handling, fighting with other animals, or slipping and falling can cause physical stress that leads to abortion.

Transportation during mid-pregnancy, especially in hot weather or stressful conditions, can lead to abortion.

Improper vaccination (especially using live vaccines not safe for pregnant cows) can also cause pregnancy loss.

How to Prevent Abortions in Cows:

Vaccinate cows properly before breeding.

Maintain clean and hygienic living conditions.

Avoid feeding moldy or spoiled feed.

Provide a balanced diet with minerals and vitamins.

Handle pregnant cows gently, especially in mid to late pregnancy.

Test for diseases if you see repeated abortions.

Consult a vet for diagnosis and treatment if abortion persist.

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