North American Veterinary Licensing Examination (NAVLE) Practice Test

Dexamethasone is the appropriate choice for inducing parturition in cattle due to its role as a glucocorticoid. In cattle, the administration of dexamethasone can lead to an increase in cortisol levels, which triggers a cascade of hormonal changes that prepare the body for parturition. This process often involves maturation of the fetal lungs, reduction of placental progesterone, and ultimately, the initiation of labor.

While estradiol cypionate is involved in reproductive management, it is typically used for synchronization of estrus or inducing ovulation rather than directly inducing parturition. The other options, chloramphenicol and furazolidone, are antibiotics; their use is strictly for treating infections and not suitable or legal for inducing parturition in cattle. Chloramphenicol, in particular, is banned in food-producing animals due to its potential to cause aplastic anemia in humans. Thus, dexamethasone stands out as the legal and effective medication for this purpose in cattle.