Gynaecology deals with the female reproductive tract — and, in practice, beyond that with the whole of reproductive medicine in dogs, cats and small pets. For breeders, professional support from mating to birth is crucial, but reproductive health plays an important role outside breeding too. This overview explains which services we offer, how the individual steps work and when an appointment at our practice in Cremlingen is sensible.
Why gynaecological care is important
An animal's fertility depends on many factors. If a bitch or cat does not become pregnant despite mating, a thorough gynaecological examination can provide clarity. This includes a general examination, a vaginal smear for cycle determination, progesterone testing for mating time determination, as well as ultrasound or X-ray for pregnancy diagnostics.
Reproductive medicine plays a crucial role for the health and well-being of dogs and cats. For breeders in particular, professional care from mating time determination to birth is essential. It increases the chances of a successful pregnancy and of healthy puppies.
What gynaecology includes
The field of gynaecology covers the whole of reproductive medicine, including neutering, obstetric care and the treatment of diseases of the reproductive organs:
- Mating time determination by in-house progesterone testing
- Pregnancy diagnostics with ultrasound and X-ray
- Birth support up to a planned or emergency caesarean section
- Treatment of diseases of the uterus (e. g. pyometra), the ovaries and the mammary glands (mastitis, mammary tumours)
- Diseases of the male genitals, such as testicular tumour, cryptorchidism or prostate cysts
- Neutering as well as advice on false pregnancy
A veterinary examination is the basis of every targeted treatment. This overview does not replace it. Please feel free to speak to us if you would like to find out more about our care.
Progesterone testing and mating time
Progesterone testing helps to determine the optimal mating time precisely. At our practice we carry out this test in-house — which means quick results without long waiting times. Several measurements on consecutive days help to pinpoint the exact time of ovulation and so increase the chances of a successful pregnancy.
For our breeders among the client base in particular, in-house progesterone testing offers great added value: the mating can be planned precisely, instead of relying on an approximate period of time.
Vaginal smear for cycle determination
The vaginal smear provides information about a bitch's cycle stage. Through microscopic examination of the cells taken, it is possible to determine which cycle phase the animal is in and when the ideal time for mating is. In combination with progesterone testing, this produces a reliable picture for planning the mating.
Pregnancy diagnostics with ultrasound and X-ray
Once a bitch has been mated, it is important to monitor the pregnancy. For this we use two complementary procedures:
- Ultrasound from day 24 after mating: confirms the pregnancy, shows the puppies' heart rate and allows a first estimate of the litter size.
- X-ray from day 45 after mating: enables an accurate count of the puppies and a check of their position before birth.
In this way both you and we are prepared for the litter, and possible complications can be recognised early.
Birth support and caesarean section
The birth of a litter is a decisive moment. We accompany the entire process and are ready for emergency caesarean care should complications arise.
A caesarean section can become necessary with very large or wrongly positioned puppies, with a stalled birth or with exhaustion of the mother dog. We carry out both planned and emergency caesarean sections. After the procedure we take care of the first care of the puppies, including a puppy examination, and ensure that the mother dog is also doing well.
Recognising and treating false pregnancy
Many bitches experience a false pregnancy after their season. Typical signs are milk production, nesting behaviour and a changed mood, such as increased clinginess or irritability.
Whether treatment is necessary depends on the individual case. Mild cases usually subside on their own; with stronger symptoms we advise you on the next steps. If false pregnancies occur repeatedly, neutering can help in the long term.
Breeder support in the region
We offer professional support for breeders from Braunschweig, Königslutter am Elm and Wolfenbüttel. Our support includes:
- individual advice, tailored to the particular breeding line,
- health management and monitoring of the pregnant bitch,
- support during the birth,
- puppy care with health checks of the newborns.
In this way the bitch is accompanied by a vet continuously, from mating planning to after the birth.
Gynaecology in Cremlingen and the region
Our practice in Cremlingen is easy to reach for pet owners and breeders from Braunschweig, Königslutter am Elm, Wolfenbüttel and Wolfsburg. If you would like the best possible care for your bitch, from mating time determination to birth. We are glad for you to arrange an appointment online or by phone.
