Abstract

The peri-partum period is a very delicate period in the life of reproductive females. During postpartum uterine involution, the uterus undergoes major changes. Infection by opportunistic bacteria is normal, almost systematic, but the natural defences usually eliminate these. When there is an imbalance between the self-defence capacity of the uterus and the pathogenicity of the bacteria, the latter can determine various uterine infections including chronic metritis. As metritis is a multifactorial disease, it is better to identify all the factors that increase the risk of the disease than to treat it. This review brings together the literature on risk factors for chronic metritis in small ruminants to explain the causal relationship between each risk factor and the disease. The prevention of chronic metritis requires the inclusion of these risk factors in the breeding strategy. Monitoring of reproduction by the veterinarian is therefore essential. In summary, some factors are specific to one form of chronic metritis and others are common to all chronic metritis, but all make the disease more severe and more frequent.

Keywords

Chronic metritis,

Risk factor,

Small ruminants.

Authors’ Contribution

JK and NYN supervised and designed the project, cross-checked the draft of the manuscript, and finally approved it for submission. CLMD conducted the project, collected data, analyzed data, and wrote the first draft of the manuscript. LCF read and revised the draft of the manuscript. All the authors approved the final draft of the manuscript for submission.

How to cite

Doumtsop, C.L.M., Kouamo, J., Njintang, N.Y., Fru, L.C., 2021. Chronic Metritis in Small Ruminants: A Review. PSM Vet. Res., 6(3): 74-88.