To get the most out of CIDR breeding technology, proper administration of the CIDR in the cow is essential, said John Rodgers at the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association Cattlemen’s College last week in Nashville, Tenn.
Cleanliness is the key to CIDR placement, said Rodgers, a Pfizer veterinarian. It's also one of the first protocols listed for correct CIDR placement by the Beef Reproductive Task Force.
Setting up a disinfect wash to be completed in between each CIDR placement will keep foreign material from being inserted into the reproductive tract and reduce instances of vaginitis, Rodger said.
Always use plastic gloves to handle CIDRs to avoid contact with the skin. The 3 grams of progestin is impeded in the plastic CIDR, which is then absorbed by the animal. It’s important that these protocols are followed as closely as possible for good results, Rodgers added.
When placing the CIDR into the gun, insert the CIDR two-thirds of the way in, folding up the wings as it enters the gun. Add lubrication and place the CIDR at the very entrance to the cervix and slowly pull back as the gun is triggered to make sure the wings deploy at the entrance to the cervix.
Rinsing the applicator in a disinfect wash after each insertion will set the stage for a high success rate at each administration and keep all animals in the best possible health.
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