Sep 19, 2018
The Calf Is Too Big
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.
The outcome is always more favorable if assistance is provided sooner rather than later. Waiting too long unnecessarily risks the life of the cow or heifer and her calf.
Read here to learn more about how to manage a successful calving season.
Download a PDF of Managing a Successful Calving Season, ANR-1403.
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The first step in providing assistance during calving is assessing the problem. There are several common situations encountered when delivering a calf. Sometimes a calf can have its head underneath both forelegs. The head must be placed on top of the forelegs, and then delivery can proceed.
When in doubt, call your veterinarian. The outcome is always more favorable if assistance is provided sooner rather than later. Waiting too long unnecessarily risks the life of the cow or heifer and her calf.
Read here to learn more about how to manage a successful calving season.
Download a PDF of Managing a Successful Calving Season, ANR-1403.
The first step in providing assistance during calving is assessing the problem. There are several common situations encountered when delivering a calf. Occasionally, one or both forelegs are retained. If both forelegs are retained, then only the head will be in the birth canal. The forelegs must be straightened out and delivered simultaneously with the head resting on top of the forelegs.
When in doubt, call your veterinarian. The outcome is always more favorable if assistance is provided sooner rather than later. Waiting too long unnecessarily risks the life of the cow or heifer and her calf.
Read here to learn more about how to manage a successful calving season.
Download a PDF of Managing a Successful Calving Season, ANR-1403.
The first step in providing assistance during calving is assessing the problem. There are several common situations encountered when delivering a calf. Sometimes a calf can have its head turned to the side during delivery. The neck must be straightened out and the head placed on top of the forelegs for delivery to proceed.
When in doubt, call your veterinarian. The outcome is always more favorable if assistance is provided sooner rather than later. Waiting too long unnecessarily risks the life of the cow or heifer and her calf.
Read here to learn more about how to manage a successful calving season.
Download a PDF of Managing a Successful Calving Season, ANR-1403.