Fetal mummification in a goat

Abstract

A 5-year pet doe (unknown breed) was presented (~ 1 month after her expected day of kidding) with a history of vaginal discharge and fetal membranes hanging from the vulva. She was bright, alert, and responsive with an elevated heart rate and respiratory rate. Blood chemistry panel was unremarkable. Vaginal speculum examination was attempted; however, her vulva was 1 inch in length (dorsal to ventral commissure) making it very hard. Transabdominal uterine ultrasonography revealed no fetus and uterus had an irregular echogenicity. A small fetus was identified via transrectal uterine ultrasonography. Decision was to perform cesarean surgery (left flank approach). A mummified fetus was extracted from the left uterine horn.