CIDR stands for controlled internal drug release. They contain progesterone which will block ovulation and stimulate females to initiate their estrous cycle. Using CIDR’s in a herd will synchronize their estrus and allow producers to accurately breed them. Producers’ goal is one calf a year, and CIDR’s allow this to happen more effectively, optimizing breeding.
Safety Considerations: When working with and handling hormones, it is extremely important to be cautious and not let the hormones touch your bare skin. For women this is especially important because the progesterone will negatively affect the women and it takes a while for her hormones to balance out. A women may experience severe mood shifts, and/or spotting or bleeding if exposed. Always wear a pair of latex or nitrile gloves when working with any hormones.
Supplies needed:
· Protective gloves (nitrile or latex)
· Container (bucket) of clean water with chlorohexidine (disinfectant) solution.
· CIDR (can only be used once)
· CIDR applicator
· Lubricant (safe for cattle)
· Cleaning wipes
Steps to Inserting a Cattle CIDR:
- Put on gloves to protect yourself through this process. This is especially important for women doing this process because of the hormones involved.
- Prepare chlorohexidine solution by mixing one ounce per gallon of water into a clean bucket. This will be used to wash the applicator between uses to prevent cross contamination issues.
- Prepare the applicator by sliding the tail along the slot and inserting the CIDR tail end first into slot. Refer to number 3 in figure below. Slide in until the wings are pushed completely together, and the end will protrude about one inch.
- Apply a generous amount of lubricant to the tip of the applicator and CIDR. This will ensure the cow/heifer does not suffer from irritation.
- Hold the cow’s/heifer’s tail to the side and clean the vulva to prevent infections.
- Open the lips of the vulva and insert the applicator at a slightly upwards angle moving towards the pelvic bone until resistance is met.
- Ensure the tail of the CIDR is on the underside of the applicator so that it curls down. This will keep it more hidden from other animals around the cow/heifer so it will not be pulled on.
- Dispense the CIDR by depressing plunger and slowly withdrawing the applicator.
- Optional: Clip the string of the CIDR so about 2.5 inches hangs out. This will prevent other cattle from pulling on the string
Subnote: For more information on CIDR’s, or to purchase them, visit Zoetisus.
