The urinary metabolites of metoclopramide (4-amino-5-chloro-N-[2-diethylaminoethyl]-2-methoxybenzamide) were identified in cows. The drug was administered intravenously, voided urine was collected, and individual urine extracts were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and high-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array detection. The parent compound and one major metabolite (4-amino-5-chloro-N-[2-(ethylamino)ethyl]-2-methoxybenzamide) were common to all individuals. In addition to the parent and major metabolite, a second, minor metabolite was identified in two cows as 4-amino-5-chloro-N-[2-(diethylamino)ethyl]-2-hydroxybenzamide. The identity of the minor metabolite was confirmed by comparison with a standard synthesized by a new method. Metabolite identification and characterization in food animal species allows the design of safety and environmental impact studies and relative metabolite ratios between dose treatment groups.

A case of uterine torsion is described and its correction under general anaesthesia by a method described by Schaffer for the cow. The degree of torsion was 180 degrees and in a clockwise direction. After correction the foal was found to be alive and in anterior presentation and ventral position; it was born normally 84 days later.

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