An infusion requires a specific volume to dilute the character and quantity of uterine fluid. Thick, purulent exudates are less likely to be responsive to a small amount of antibiotics deposited intrauterine. The endometrium is a sensitive lining that will overreact to irritating compounds such as Lugol's solution. A gelatin capsule filled with tetracycline powder retards normal involution by being acidic and causing tissue necrosis. A preventative approach has been suggested with the supplementation of anionic salts to the diet.
Retained placenta is thought to be influenced by electrolyte concentrations.
An injection of collagenase into the umbilical artery duplicates the cow's response to release the cotyledons from the caruncles. Manual extraction of the retained placenta has been done for years. However, caution should be taken if there is an existing metritis or a friable uterine wall. The cow can become septic or toxic. There still is a debate on whether manual extraction has an adverse effect on future fertility.