How to Help a Cow During Calving

Approximately 6 to 10 percent of all calves born in the United States do not survive during the birthing process or the first few hours afterwards, according to the University of Missouri Extension (see reference 3). Many cows require a little assistance during the birthing process. This involves educating yourself on the correct birthing position of the calf, having access to the proper equipment and knowing when to step back and call the veterinarian for assistance.

Things You'll Need

  • Rubbing alcohol
  • OB chains
  • Flashlight with fresh batteries
  • Rubber gloves
  • Cotton swab
  • Hay
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Watch for the beginning of the birthing process. The cow's cervix will dilate and contractions will begin to occur 15 minutes apart, becoming closer as the labor continues. At the end of this first stage, the cow's water sac is pushed through the pelvis and will rupture.

    • 2

      Move the cow into a clean environment to prevent any possible infection. If kept in the pasture, choose an area not heavily grazed and free of large mud puddles.

    • 3

      Sterilize any tools to be used during the birthing process with rubbing alcohol, including OB chains. Have a flashlight with fresh batteries ready to gain a better view of the calf's position in the birthing canal.

    • 4

      Wearing sterilized gloves, peer into the birthing canal with the flashlight to determine the calf's birthing position. As the calf descends it will turn until its forelegs begin to protrude from the canal. Attach the sterile obstetrical chains to the calf's forelegs approximately 2-inches above the ankles. Contact the veterinarian immediately if the calf is too large for the birthing canal, or if it is in a breech position.

    • 5

      Gently pull on the calf's right leg and then the left. Continue to pull on the alternating legs with the OB chains until the head and shoulders emerge from the birthing canal.

    • 6

      Pull on the OB chains at a 45-degree angle until the remainder of the calf's body emerges.

    • 7

      Clear the mucus from the calf's nose with a cotton swab. Use your gloved hands to clear mucus from the calf's mouth and throat. If the calf is not responding, rub a piece of hay around the nostrils to stimulate the breathing process.