Pregnancy in cows can be identified through several behavioral and physical signs. After mating, a pregnant cow typically stops showing estrus, becomes more docile, eats more, gains weight, and develops a shiny coat. A vaginal examination one month post-mating may reveal a dry, pale mucosa, with the cervix closed and covered by a thick mucus plug. Another method involves administering 10 mg of ethylene diethylstilbestrol intramuscularly 20 days after mating; if no estrus occurs, the cow is likely pregnant. Rectal examination can also help—after one month, the uterus feels soft, and the uterine horns may appear slightly enlarged. By 40-50 days, the horns become thick and firm, resembling a water bag, with a visible corpus luteum on the ovary. At three months, the uterine horn expands into a large sac.
Proper care for pregnant cows includes a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins A and E, and bone meal to prevent osteomalacia. In winter, feeding silage or malt helps compensate for lack of green feed. Exercise should be moderate, avoiding stress, and work should be reduced one month before calving. Cows should be kept in clean, quiet environments and prepared for delivery.
As the due date approaches, the udder swells, and the teats may secrete a yellowish fluid. The vulva becomes swollen, and mucus discharge begins two days before birth. The tail muscles relax, and the cow may show restlessness. Using a 285-day gestation period, the due date can be calculated by subtracting 3 from the breeding month and adding 10 to the day. For example, breeding on May 11 would result in a due date of February 21.
During labor, it's essential to monitor the cow closely. The membranes rupture, and the cow lies down, preferably on her left side to avoid pressure on the fetus. The amniotic fluid should be drained, and the cow should be fed warm bran soup with salt and sugar to aid recovery. If dystocia occurs, the fetus must be repositioned carefully, and assistance may be needed to guide the calf out safely.
After birth, the calf should be cleaned immediately, with mucus removed from the mouth and nose. If the calf is not breathing, the hind legs should be lifted to drain the amniotic fluid, followed by artificial respiration. The umbilical cord should be cut 6-8 cm from the body, disinfected with iodine, and wrapped to prevent infection. In cold weather, the calf’s body should be dried, and colostrum should be fed as soon as possible.
Postpartum care includes feeding warm bran soup, removing soiled bedding, and providing clean hay. The placenta should be expelled within 24 hours; otherwise, veterinary intervention is needed. Lochia (postpartum discharge) is normal, but if it smells foul or lasts longer than 21 days, a vet check is recommended. Finally, monitoring for postpartum estrus is crucial, as cows may not show obvious signs in the first few weeks. Estrus usually appears around 15–20 days post-calving, and if it doesn’t occur within 45–60 days, a health check is necessary to ensure fertility.
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