Introduction

Microbial infections of the female genital tract are common in buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis), followed by Bos taurus dairy cattle, whereas Bos indicus (indigenous) cattle appear to be less prone. Uterine infections usually arise as part of a complex of diseases that is referred to as the 'metritis complex,' which comprises; retained fetal membranes (RFM), metritis/ puerperal metritis, clinical and subclinical endometritis, and pyometra. These diseases share the same causes; one may lead to another, and hence, the treatment approach is often similar. Unhygienic floor conditions and handling often leads to contaminated uterus, but many cows are able to eliminate this within a few weeks. However, in a significant number of cows (25-40%), this contamination is not eliminated, and the uterus becomes infected. The results of this infection can range from mild chronic infection to life-threatening disease, depending on the bacteria involved and the cow's ability to mount an effective immune response. The uterine disease is important in cattle because the consequences are sub-fertility and, in some cases, infertility.

Retained Fetal Membranes (RFM)

Retained fetal membranes (RFM) are a comm