By Blake Jackson
Before calving season, it’s essential to ensure all facilities and equipment are ready for the herd. Calving stalls should be clean and dry, with bedding replaced after each birth to reduce the risk of disease. Additionally, a warm area should be available for chilled calves to maintain their health.
Having a fully stocked calving kit on hand is critical for managing birthing efficiently. Calving kits should include items such as calf pullers (chains and handles), disinfectant to sanitize, gloves, lubrication, paper towels, frozen colostrum, electrolytes, and iodine for the calf's navel.
Other helpful items include an oral calf feeder, feeding bottles, selenium and vitamin A and D injections, dehorning paste, castration tools, and an ear tagging kit. Keeping the kit in a bucket or backpack ensures quick access during emergencies. It’s also wise to have contact numbers for assistance with difficult births.
Monitoring the herd frequently is important, especially first-time calving heifers. Pregnant heifers should be moved to a designated calving area two weeks before their due date to allow closer observation.
During this time, evaluating the cow’s body condition is vital. Maintaining a score of 5 ensures proper nutrition for the calf and supports timely rebreeding. Cows scoring below 4 should receive high-quality hay and supplements to meet energy requirements.
After birth, calves should receive colostrum within two hours, and their navels should be treated with 7 percent iodine. Ear tagging or tattooing should be completed early for easy identification.
Cow-calf pairs can be moved to pasture after two to three days, providing a cleaner and healthier environment. Regularly monitor calves for scours or other health concerns.
March is also an ideal time to prepare pastures for the season. Conduct soil tests to determine proper fertilizer requirements and develop a fertilization plan for permanent pastures. Depending on weather conditions, seeding can begin in late March through early April, ensuring pastures are ready to support the herd.
Photo Credit: istock-simplycreativephotography
Categories: Pennsylvania, Livestock, Dairy Cattle