How to Get a Cow to Accept Her Calf

Some first-calf heifers abandon their calves soon after birth due to birth trauma, stress or an inability to maternally bond. Because the rejected newborns need mother̵7;s colostrum and milk to thrive, the cattle farmer must find a way to help the mother accept her baby and feed it. In a situation where the cow or heifer has died during birth, the orphan calf needs to be placed on a surrogate mother in order to live. The cattleman must determine the best ways to feed his rejected or orphaned calves for the benefit of his herd.

Things You'll Need

  • Frozen colostrum
  • Work or milking chute
  • Small paddock or corral
  • Frozen cow̵7;s milk
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Instructions

  1. First-Calf Heifers

    • 1

      Milk the mother as soon after birth as possible to withdraw colostrum to feed the calf. Rub the calf on its head and muzzle with the heifer̵7;s colostrum to help her recognize her baby.

    • 2

      Lay the newborn on the heifer̵7;s udder to transfer the smell of the mother̵7;s colostrum and body to the baby. Allow the mother to sniff and nose the calf as much as she needs.

    • 3

      Rub the calf with fluids from the placenta or the heifer̵7;s vulva. According to the University of Saskatchewan Extension Service, you can also place birth fluids on the muzzle and tongue of the heifer. Placing her smell onto the baby may hasten the mother̵7;s acceptance of the newborn, especially if you push the newborn directly in front of her muzzle.

    Orphaned Calf

    • 4

      Restrain a surrogate heifer in a work or milking chute and place some feed in front of her to divert her attention. Isolate her from the herd in a quiet barn with few distractions.

    • 5

      Milk her to release some colostrum and rub it on the orphan calf.

    • 6

      Place the newborn̵7;s mouth on her udder and allow it to nurse. If she attempts to kick, you can either tie up her hind leg so she can̵7;t move it, or place a board in front of the leg so that she kicks the board instead of the calf.

    • 7

      Remove the restraints on the heifer one at a time as she begins to bond with the newborn. After she appears to accept the baby, turn them both out in a small enclosure where they can be watched and the calf can continue to nurse.