Surgical management of atresia ani complicated with rectovaginal fistula in a sahiwal calf

Atresia ani is a common congenital abnormality of the digestive system in bovine calves in which the anal opening is not developed. Constant straining for defecation and increased abdominal pressure can create a rupture in the rectum forming a rectovaginal fistula and such conditions require immediate surgical intervention. A day-old Sahiwal cow was diagnosed with atresia ani complicated with rectovaginal fistula. Under epidural anaesthesia the anal opening was reconstructed and the fistula was closed. The surgical correction, postoperative management and recovery is reported.