Research Report – AVTRW 2024 Conference Presentation Persistency of the Madigan thoracic squeeze phenomenon in dairy calves 3–6 weeks of age

The Madigan foal chest squeeze technique can induce a somnolent state in neonatal calves. This study investigated the phenomenon in older calves. Five Friesian-Holstein dairy calves with an age range of 21–42 days were used in the study. Observations of mentation and measures of heart rates, respiratory rates and rectal temperatures were made before and during the application of the technique. Two calves exhibited somnolent behaviour accompanied by a small reduction in heart rate, respiratory rate, and rectal temperature. In comparison to neonatal foals and calves however, the somnolent state and reaction to the squeeze were less profound as was the reduction in the physiological parameters. Due to the variable and weaker somnolence induced by the Madigan chest compression technique in older calves it is unlikely to be useful in providing predictable restraint or analgesia. However, it is interesting to note that a state of somnolence may ensue in some older calves following persistent chest compression, whatever the cause, but that this will be followed by a speedy and full recovery once the compression ceases.