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Meet Norman, a one-week-old calf who came to see Dr. Frosch after losing his ability to suckle. Norman is strictly bottle-fed, so when he suddenly could no longer suckle or take his bottle, it was an important concern.
Norman was showing signs commonly associated with what is often called a “dummy calf.” While the name may sound lighthearted, dummy calf syndrome can be a serious problem for a newborn. These calves may be unusually quiet or unresponsive, have difficulty standing or coordinating their movements, or lose the normal suckle reflex they need to nurse or take a bottle.
When a Calf Seems “Stuck” in a Sleepy State
In some cases, a “dummy calf” may appear as though it hasn't completely made the transition from the sleep-like state of being inside the uterus to the alert, responsive state we expect to see after birth.
That is where the Madigan Squeeze comes in.
What is the Madigan Squeeze?
The Madigan Squeeze Technique was developed by Dr. John Madigan at the University of California, Davis. It was originally developed for newborn foals experiencing neonatal maladjustment, but the technique has also been used in newborn calves.
The theory behind the technique is fascinating. During a normal birth, a newborn experiences significant pressure as it moves through the birth canal. Dr. Madigan theorized that this pressure may help trigger the newborn's brain to transition from a sleep-like state into an alert and responsive state.
The Madigan Squeeze attempts to recreate some of that pressure after birth.
How Did Dr. Frosch Perform Norman's Squeeze?
For Norman, Dr. Frosch instructed a technician to use a rope positioned around Norman’s chest and ribcage to create controlled pressure around his body. The technique is designed to mimic the pressure a calf experiences as it passes through the birth canal almost as if the calf is being given the sensation of being “ born” again.
The pressure is carefully controlled and applied around the chest while avoiding the airway. As the squeeze takes effect, the calf typically becomes very relaxed and enters a temporary sleep-like state. After the appropriate amount of time, the pressure is released, with the goal of helping the calf make that transition into a more alert, responsive state.
Norman's Big Comeback
Norman's response was remarkable!
Within minutes of Dr. Frosch performing the Madigan Squeeze, Norman was back on his feet and had regained his suckle reflex. He was once again able to take his bottle and get the nutrition he needed.
Norman has been reunited with his mom but will continue to be strictly bottle-fed. Getting that suckle reflex back was a huge step in getting this little guy back on track.
Sometimes, veterinary medicine is about knowing when to think outside the box and in Norman's case, it involved a rope, a fascinating technique, and one determined little calf!
We're happy to see Norman back on his feet and ready for his next bottle!
The Madigan Squeeze should only be performed following appropriate veterinary evaluation and by someone trained in the technique. A calf that is weak, unusually dull, or unable to suckle should be evaluated by a veterinarian promptly. If you have concerns about a calf, call our clinic at (254) 935-3693 so we can help you get the care needed.