FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

Which method is generally used to determine pregnancy status in cows?

1. Blood test

2. Rectal palpation

3. Observation of behavioral changes

4. Ultrasound

The correct answer is: Rectal palpation

Rectal palpation is a widely recognized and common method for determining pregnancy status in cows. This technique involves the veterinarian inserting their arm into the cow's rectum to feel the reproductive organs. By doing so, they can detect the presence of a developing fetus, identify the size and position of the uterus, and estimate the age of the pregnancy. Rectal palpation is particularly valuable because it can be performed relatively early in the gestation period, typically around 30 days after breeding, which allows for timely management decisions regarding the cow's reproductive status. Other methods exist, such as blood tests that can measure specific hormones indicating pregnancy, but these procedures are often less commonly used in the field compared to rectal palpation. Observing behavioral changes can provide indirect clues to a cow’s pregnancy status, but is not a definitive method. Ultrasound offers a very accurate method for determining pregnancy and can provide images of the fetus, but it is typically more resource-intensive and may not be performed as commonly as rectal palpation in routine veterinary practice. Thus, the effectiveness, efficiency, and accessibility of rectal palpation make it a preferred choice for many veterinarians in assessing pregnancy in cows.