VCP 411: Gynaecology and Obstetrics Section

ABDOMINAL PALPATION

Abdominal palpation is more reliable and accurate between days 25 - 30 of gestation.

Limitations

Accuracy of abdominal palpation depends on

• Litter size   
  • Single fetus accuracy is less.
  • More fetus accuracy is more.
• Size of the bitch
  • Accuracy of abdominal palapation is more in small size breeds than large size.
• Obesity
  • Accuracy is more in thin and lean bitches
  • Accuracy is less in obese bitches
• Temperament of the bitch
  • Accuracy is less in viscious, timid and frieghtened bitch due to tensing of abdominal muscle.
• Stage of Gestation 
  • Accurate between 25 -30 days.