Retrospective Evaluation of Dystocia in Miniature Equids: 78 Cases (2002–2023)

Objective

To describe patient characteristics, laboratory data, fetal orientation, methods of correction, survival, and treatment in miniature equids with dystocia.

Design

Retrospective study conducted from January 2002 to June 2023.

Setting

Equine referral hospital and field service.

Animals

Seventy animals with a total of 78 instances of dystocia.

Interventions

None.

Measurements and Main Results

Recorded variables included signalment, clinicopathologic data, fetal presentation, correction method, survival to discharge, and complications. The survival of miniature equid mares was 94% (73/78), while survival of foals was 17% (13/78). The most common causes of dystocia were abnormal limb presentation in 27% (21/78), neck flexion in 23% (18/78), and caudal presentation with bilateral hip flexion in 17% (13/78). The correction methods used were controlled vaginal delivery in 45% (35/78), assisted vaginal delivery in 35% (27/78), cesarean delivery in 17% (13/78), and fetotomy in 4% (3/78). Complications included retained fetal membranes in 19% (15/78), metritis in 8% (6/78), obturator nerve paralysis in 5% (4/78), and hyperlipidemia in 5% (4/78).

Conclusions

Miniature equid mares appear likely to survive dystocia. The condition can be resolved by controlled or assisted vaginal delivery in the majority of cases. Continued research and training are needed to improve survival in foals.