Instructions
Watch for udder enlargement and the swelling of the vulva, the outer opening of the reproductive tract. Several months before calving, the cow's udder enlarges and develops. The term for udder development is called "making a bag," which is especially evident in heifers. Within several week of calving, the vulva relaxes and swells. This is known as "springing."
Observe the relaxation of the pelvic ligaments. This normally occurs within 24 hours of calving. At this stage, the udder is filled with milk, and the teats might be larger. Once calving begins, the process normally takes 8 to 12 hours.
Take notice of a number of signs that indicate the cow or heifer is going into labor. Two to six hours before the birth of the calf, the cow might separate from the herd and go off feed. The cow is restless and raises her tail. The cervix (barrier between the vagina and uterus) begins to dilate, and a mucus discharge from the vulva might be present.
Watch for signs of frequent and forceful uterine contractions. The fetal membranes or amniotic sac extend from the vulva. The normal position for the calf is the head resting on the two front legs. This stage usually takes about 30 minutes for cows, and an hour for heifers. It ends with the birth of the calf. If this stage is prolonged, the cow might have a difficult birth. Contact a veterinarian immediately if problems are suspected.
Clean the mucus from the calf's nose and mouth, and make sure the calf is breathing. If necessary, tickle the inside of the calf's nostril with a piece of straw to encourage the calf to sneeze. Or, gently hold the calf by the hind legs and briefly swing upside down. This drains the mucous from the respiratory tract. Ensure the calf stands and nurses the colostrum, the first milk, within the first few hours of birth. Disinfect the umbilical cord with iodine or another disinfectant.
Check the cow carefully to be certain the placenta or afterbirth is expelled within 8 to 12 hours of the calf delivery. A retained placenta leads to serious illness or death of the cow. Contact a veterinarian immediately if the cleaning stage doesn't progress normally.
How Do I Know if My Cow Is Calving?
Cows give birth to calves approximately 283 days after mating with a bull or artificial insemination. Birth can occur up to 10 days earlier with small cows or heifers (young females who have not given birth) and extend 10 days longer for older and larger cows. The signs of calving are similar for both beef and dairy cows. There are numerous signs to determine if a cow is ready to calve.