Student Case Presentation
Unique Cause of Peritonitis and Cecal Dilation in a 2-Year-Old Holstein Dairy Cow
| Date/Time: |
8/27/2026 Poster 16
|
| Presenter: |
Matthew Shaub |
| Veterinary School: |
VA |
Abstract:
A 2-year-old Holstein cow, 14 days post-partum, presented for decreased appetite and milk production over the course of several days. The cow was treated for ketosis, with a suspected left displaced abomasum (LDA). Upon physical exam, tachycardia was noted, as was a distended pear-shaped abdomen and generalized discomfort. A diffuse ping was auscultated on the left para lumbar fossa. Rectal palpation revealed a distended cecum and small intestine, as well as scant fecal material. A right flank abdominal exploratory surgery was elected. No evidence of an LDA was found, however, distended cecum and small intestine were noted, along with large pieces of fibrin. Cecal torsion was suspected, and due to poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected. Necropsy revealed a 120 cm long band of tissue extending from the base of the omentum to the outside, cranial edge of the omental sling. The band was noted to be firm with areas of hemorrhage. The cecum was dilated and gas filled, also containing green-brown liquid ingesta with an overall length of 2 meters. Fibrin was found in the supraomental recess and on the serosal surface of the cecum and large intestine. Acute peritonitis and cecal dilation were listed as the final diagnosis.
While LDA is not uncommon in dairy cattle, it is not the only cause of decreased milk production, food intake, and depressed mentation. Clinicians should not rule out other causes of gastrointestinal obstruction when determining treatment plans for affected cattle. Cecal dilation is common in post-partum dairy cattle and occasionally has been linked to the abnormal formation of fibrous bands, such as paraovarian bands and the falciform ligament. While most left sided pings represent an LDA, and most cecal dilations are caused by dilation and torsion, this case serves as a reminder that there may be other abnormalities causing cecal dilation.
