Beef

The first step in providing assistance during calving  is assessing the problem. There are several common situations encountered when delivering a calf. In some instances, the calf is too big to deliver. This most frequently occurs in heifers, but it can occur in cows.

Applying excessive force to attempt delivery of a calf that is too big is detrimental to the health of the heifer and the calf, and wastes precious time. Call a veterinarian as soon as you decide the calf is too big. The calf can be saved if assistance is provided promptly. Even if the calf cannot be saved, a veterinarian can dismember the calf or perform a C-section to save the heifer.