Post-Whelping Abdominal Distention Resulted from Ascites Caused by Perforated Uterus, Enteropathy, Macerated and Mummified Fetuses in a Dog - Case Report

Abstract

A one-year-old mixed breed bitch was examined 3 weeks after whelping with a history of abdominal distention that began three weeks ago. The bitch had delivered 5 stillborn pups one month ago. The abdominal distention had increased over the past few weeks. Physical examination revealed that the bitch was extremely anemic with a PCV of 8%. The abdomen was markedly distended and hard. A serosanguinous discharge emanated from the vagina. Abdominal radiographs were taken. Radiographic examinations revealed the entire abdominal cavity appeared opaque and no serosal detail could be seen. There appeared to be a small bone in the abdomen. On exploratory abdominal surgery, the entire uterus was found to be brown and necrotic. A mummified fetus and punctured uterus in two locations was discovered. The uterus, ovaries, and as much necrotic omentum as possible were removed. Postpartum complications due to ascites, fetal mummification, and fetal maceration resulted in adhesions of the abdominal and pelvic organs, and metritis. Veterinarians should consider further diagnostics of the genital tract if any postpartum complications are noted.