Endometritis is inflammation of the uterus lining that occurs just after giving birth. It results from the placenta being retained or severe contamination of the reproductive tract during delivery. Factors such as prolonged or complicated delivery and a retained fetus or placenta may cause metritis. The most common cause of metritis in mares is infection by Streptococcus zooepidemicus bacteria. Other bacteria, such as Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Klebsiella pneumoniae can also cause metritis. The infection is diagnosed through physical examination, monitoring body temperature, ultrasonography, and laboratory tests. The primary treatment includes the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and antibiotics, as well as management of the retained placenta.
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See our professional content regarding endometritis in horses.
