Calving in Cows: Signs and How To Prepare For It.

Calving is one of the most important moments in a cattle farmer’s calendar. It marks the success of breeding efforts and the future productivity of the herd. Knowing when a cow is about to calve allows for timely intervention, safer births, and healthier calves. Missed signs or poor preparation can lead to complications, stress, or even loss of both cow and calf.

Understanding the signs of impending calving helps reduce risk, ensure animal comfort, and improve survival rates. This blog outlines the common signs to watch for and the steps every farmer should take to prepare for a safe and successful calving event.

Behavioral Changes

As calving approaches, cows exhibit distinct behavioral shifts. They may become restless, separate themselves from the herd, and frequently lie down and get back up. Some cows may become more vocal, while others prefer quiet isolation.

Kicking at the belly, tail switching, and frequently looking toward the flank area are common signs of abdominal discomfort. These changes indicate that the cow is entering the early stages of labor and should be closely monitored.

Some cows may also show a decrease in appetite and begin pacing or circling within their pen. These subtle changes can start hours before active labor begins. Careful observation during this phase helps farmers recognize when to prepare the calving area and ensure the cow has a calm, stress-free environment to give birth safely.

Physical Signs of Calving

Several physical changes can be seen in the days or hours leading up to calving. The udder becomes firm and swollen, and the teats may begin to leak colostrum. This is often referred to as "bagging up" and typically occurs a few days before delivery.

The vulva becomes noticeably swollen and relaxed. A clear, mucus-like discharge from the vulva often appears within 12–24 hours of labor. The pelvic ligaments also soften, making the tail head appear more prominent. These signs indicate the cow’s body is preparing for delivery.

Another sign to watch for is the cow’s tail carriage. As calving nears, cows may hold their tail slightly away from their bodies or lift them more frequently. This change, combined with a sunken area around the pins (hip bones), signals that the body is loosening and aligning for birth. Farmers who observe these signs can better anticipate when active labor is likely to begin.

First Stage of Labor

The first stage of labor may last up to 12 hours. During this phase, the cervix begins to dilate, and the calf moves into the birth canal. The cow may appear anxious, paw the ground, arch her back, or shiver. She may urinate frequently and begin to strain lightly.

Though no calf parts are visible during this stage, it is critical to keep the cow under close observation. A quiet, clean area free from disturbance helps reduce stress and allows labor to progress smoothly.

It’s important to note that progress during this stage can vary depending on the cow’s age, condition, and whether she’s a first-time calver. Heifers often take longer than mature cows.

While monitoring, ensure the cow is not straining too hard without visible progress, as this could indicate an issue that may require veterinary assistance. Timely recognition of abnormal patterns during this stage is essential for preventing prolonged labor or complications.

Second Stage of Labor

This is the active phase of calving and usually lasts between 30 minutes and 2 hours. The water bag ruptures, and calf hooves, followed by the nose, should begin to appear. Strong abdominal contractions push the calf through the birth canal.

If the cow strains for more than two hours without progress, or if the calf appears in an abnormal position (for example, backward or head turned), assistance is needed. Delayed intervention during this phase can lead to calf loss or injury to the cow.

Farmers should observe the presentation of the calf closely—normal delivery usually shows two front feet followed by the nose, indicating a forward-facing position. If only one leg appears, or if the feet are upside down, it may suggest a breech or malpositioned calf.

In such cases, prompt help from a trained handler or veterinarian is essential. Having calving tools and clean lubricants on hand can be critical when assistance is needed to reposition or gently pull the calf.

Post-Calving Events

After birth, the cow should stand and begin licking the calf to stimulate breathing and circulation. The placenta usually passes within 6 to 12 hours. Delayed expulsion may signal a retained placenta, which can lead to infection if not treated promptly.

Ensure the calf receives colostrum within the first 1–2 hours of life. Colostrum delivers vital antibodies that protect the calf from early diseases. Monitor the cow for signs of bleeding, lack of appetite, or sluggish behavior, as these may indicate post-calving complications.

It’s helpful to observe whether the calf can stand and nurse on its own. Weak or chilled calves may require assistance with standing or bottle-feeding to ensure they receive sufficient colostrum.

Clean the calf’s navel with iodine to prevent infection, and place both cow and calf in a warm, quiet space to bond. Keeping detailed post-calving records, such as birth time, calf gender, and any issues observed, supports better herd management and health tracking over time.

How to Prepare for Calving

Proper preparation before calving begins can reduce complications and improve the survival of both the cow and calf. Calving success starts with creating the right environment, gathering essential tools, and knowing what signs to monitor closely.

Start by preparing a clean, dry, and well-sheltered calving area. This can be a dedicated pen or a corner of the barn that is easy to monitor. The space should be free from sharp objects, have good drainage, and be well-lit for nighttime observation. Clean the area thoroughly and disinfect it before each use to reduce the risk of infection.

Keep a basic calving kit close by. Essential items include:

• Clean gloves
• Disposable towels or clean rags
• Lubricant
• Calving ropes or a calf puller (if trained to use)
• Iodine or chlorhexidine for dipping the calf's navel
• A bucket of warm water
• A flashlight or headlamp
• Notebook or app for recording birth details
• Contact info for a veterinarian in case of emergency

Monitor pregnant cows closely in the final weeks of gestation. Check for swelling of the udder, relaxation of pelvic ligaments, and any discharge from the vulva. Keeping accurate records of breeding dates using tools like My Cattle Manager helps predict due dates and prioritize which cows need close attention.

Ensure cows are in good body condition before calving—neither too thin nor overly fat. Provide balanced feed and plenty of clean water. If the cow is in poor health before labor, the chances of a difficult calving or weak calf increase significantly.

Once labor begins, give the cow space but continue to observe her quietly. Avoid unnecessary interference, but be ready to assist or call for veterinary help if labor stalls or if abnormal calf positioning is seen.

Being well-prepared improves confidence, reduces panic during complications, and gives newborn calves the best start in life.

Conclusion

Recognizing the signs of calving and being prepared helps ensure a smooth delivery and a healthy calf. Farmers who stay observant, create a clean birthing environment, and act quickly in emergencies protect both cow and calf during one of the most critical times in the reproductive cycle.

Planning, patience, and practice make all the difference during calving season. With the right knowledge and preparation, farmers can reduce losses, improve animal welfare, and strengthen the long-term success of their cattle operations.