Determining pregnancy and understanding the stages of calving is crucial for knowing when intervention is needed to ensure a safe gestation and delivery.
Animal health technician from Afrivet, Kenneth Malatji, shares practical tips for farmers, emphasising the importance of careful observation and timely veterinary assistance when complications occur.
Determining pregnancy in cattle
One of the first challenges a farmer faces is determining whether a cow or heifer is pregnant. “The most effective method for pregnancy detection in cattle depends on the accuracy needed and the budget available,” says Malatji.
- Rectal palpation
This is a popular and cost-effective method that only requires minimal equipment, such as crush gloves and lubricant. It is a technique used to diagnose pregnancy in cattle by feeling the reproductive tract through the rectum. “Performed by a trained and experienced person, rectal palpation can provide accurate results,” Malatji explains. However, farm owners must ensure proper training to prevent complications.
- Ultrasound examinations
Ultrasound examinations are an excellent option for those seeking higher accuracy, though they are costly due to the advanced equipment involved. Ultrasounds can detect pregnancy earlier and with greater precision.
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- Monitoring for the return to heat
This is a less specific, but still useful method, relying on the sharp eye of an observant herdsman. “An observant herdsman can detect signs of heat in a non-pregnant animal, but this method relies heavily on experience,” Malatji explains.
The choice of method ultimately comes down to balancing cost and accuracy. “Rectal palpation offers a cost-effective and accurate solution for many, while ultrasound provides higher precision but at a greater expense.”
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Minimise stress for a full gestation
Managing stress in pregnant cattle is another vital area. Malatji advises, “Farmers should create a calm and supportive environment, especially in the last trimester.” This includes providing ample space, maintaining consistent routines, and handling cattle gently.
Low-stress techniques during injections or any form of handling are vital to prevent overwhelming the animal. “Regular observation and timely veterinary care are essential,” he adds.
Calving assistance: When to step in
Knowing when to assist during calving is key to ensuring the safety of both cow and calf. Malatji breaks down the normal calving process into three phases:
Phase One: The first phase is when the cow starts straining and the calf moves into the birth canal. This lasts on average two to six hours. . “If a cow is restless, getting up and lying down for more than eight hours without the water breaking, something is wrong,” he warns.
Phase Two: The second phase starts when the water breaks and the calf is actively pushed out. Active calving must be finished within one to two hours in cows and within two to four hours in heifers (calving for the first time), after the water has broken. In normal calving, the front hooves, the front legs and then the nose of the calf will become visible soon after the water has broken during active pushing. If there is no progress or pushing stops for more than 20 minutes, intervention is needed, Malatji notes.
Phase Three: The afterbirth is pushed out. This normally completed within six hours after birth. Farmers must be vigilant for any abnormalities, such as a visible swollen tongue of the calf or excessive bleeding from the cow. “If you observe any of these signs, it’s time to call a veterinarian.”
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