Survey on Dystocia in Sheep Farming in Batna Region: Causes, Risk Factors, and Veterinary Interventions ^†

Abstract

This study investigates the occurrence of dystocia in sheep farming, particularly focusing on the Batna region in eastern Algeria. Dystocia, or difficulty in parturition, represents a significant economic challenge, contributing to high perinatal mortality rates, maternal death, and reduced reproductive efficiency in sheep. This study aimed to identify the primary causes and risk factors associated with dystocia through surveys conducted with local veterinarians. The research findings suggest that fetal malposition, fetal oversize, and incomplete cervical dilation are the leading causes of dystocia. Additionally, maternal factors such as incomplete cervical dilation and uterine torsion were also a common cause. The risk of dystocia increases with parity and litter size and decreases with body score. Early veterinary intervention, including cesarean sections, reduced lamb mortality and greatly improved reproductive outcomes. These findings underline the importance of effective management strategies in preventing and managing dystocia in sheep farming.

1. Introduction

Sheep farming is an integral part of Algeria’s livestock industry, particularly in rural areas. The health of sheep, especially during parturition, plays a crucial role in the economic viability of sheep farming operations. Dystocia, defined as difficulty in giving birth, is a major challenge contributing to significant economic losses. Dystocia is generally of fetal or maternal origin [1]. Fetal causes of dystocia primarily include disproportion, malposition, and fetal abnormalities. Maternal causes of dystocia are mainly attributed to incomplete cervical dilation, a narrow pelvis, and uterine inertia [2]. Dystocia can lead to the death of the lamb, severe complications for the ewe, and reduced future fertility [3]. This study aimed to investigate the primary causes of dystocia in sheep in Batna, identify associated risk factors, and assess the effectiveness of veterinary interventions.

2. Materials and Methods

This study was conducted in the province of Batna, which is known for its semi-extensive sheep farming practices. A structured survey was distributed to veterinarians across the region to collect data on dystocia cases. The survey collected information on both fetal and maternal factors, including the ewe’s age, body condition score (BCS), fetal positioning, and any veterinary interventions performed. Data were collected and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019 for descriptive statistics. The data from 78 dystocia cases were analyzed to determine the most common causes of dystocia, associated risk factors, and the effectiveness of veterinary treatments, such as cesarean sections.

3. Results and Discussion

The results of this study highlight that fetal malposition (34.61%) and fetal oversize (26.92%) were the leading causes of dystocia in sheep. Among the maternal factors, incomplete cervical dilation and uterine torsion were the most common contributors (

Table 1. Frequency of different causes of dystocia in sheep.

Cause of Dystocia	Frequency (%)	Number of Cases
Fetal Malposition	34.62%	27
Fetal Oversize	26.92%	21
Incomplete Cervical Dilation	19.23%	15
Uterine Torsion	11.54%	9
Narrow Pelvic Dimensions	5.13%	4
Monsters	2.56%	2

). The risk of dystocia increases in multiparous lean sheep bearing multiple fetuses (

Table 2. Risk factors associated with dystocia in sheep.

Risk Factors	Modalities	Frequency (%)	Number of Cases
Parity	Primiparous	32.05%	25
	Multiparous	67.95%	53
Litter Size	Single	39.74%	31
	Multiple	60.26%	47
BCS	Lean	44.87%	35
	Average	41.03%	32
	Obese	14.1%	11

). Cesarean sections were shown to be an effective intervention in cases of severe dystocia, reducing lamb mortality compared to administering PGF2a or corticoids. In cases where fetal-maternal disproportion and uterine torsion occurred, cesarean sections were frequently performed to save the ewe and lamb compared to manual correction.

The findings of this study align with the results reported in previous research. Jacobson et al. [3] reported that fetal malposition is one of the leading causes of dystocia in sheep. Similarly, the importance of proper cervical dilation, as highlighted by Mostefai et al. [4], was confirmed by our results. The occurrence of dystocia due to fetomaternal disproportion, leading to cesarean sections, is also consistent with the observations of Cloete et al. [5]. Moreover, dystocia risk is increased with high- or low-birthweight lambs, high- (fat) or low-liveweight ewes, and small first parity ewes, as documented by Jacobson et al. [3], which underscores the importance of nutritional and reproductive management in sheep farming. The timely involvement of veterinary personnel, as recommended by Voigt et al. [6], was critical in improving outcomes for both ewes and lambs. This study highlights the need for ongoing monitoring of ewes during the final stages of pregnancy to detect signs of dystocia early and implement appropriate interventions.

4. Conclusions

Dystocia remains a major challenge in sheep farming, with significant implications for animal health and farm profitability. This study demonstrates that fetal factors, such as malposition and oversize, as well as maternal factors, like incomplete cervical dilation, are the primary contributors to dystocia. The risk of dystocia increases with parity and litter size and decreases with body score. Effective management strategies, including early veterinary intervention and cesarean sections, are crucial for reducing lamb mortality and improving the reproductive outcomes of ewes. Future research should focus on optimizing sheep management practices further to reduce the incidence of dystocia and associated losses.