EnglishSigns of heat in cows and sensor-based heat detection
The oestrous cycle in cattle averages 21 days, and standing heat usually lasts only 8–18 hours. Because this short window often begins at night, it is easily missed. Sensors pick up the marked increase in activity during heat, so you don't miss the insemination window.
How long is the oestrous cycle?
The oestrous cycle in cattle averages 21 days and varies between 18 and 24 days in most cows. Within the cycle, standing heat — when the cow accepts mounting — is short, usually lasting 8–18 hours. Missing it means waiting about three weeks for the next opportunity.
What are the signs of heat in cows?
- Standing to be mounted: The most reliable sign.
- Increased activity: The cow walks far more than usual and is restless.
- Mounting other cows and frequently changing position in the herd.
- Clear, stringy mucus discharge and a swollen, reddened vulva.
- Temporary drop in milk yield and appetite.
- Bellowing and nervousness.
Why are heats missed?
A large share of heats begin at night or in the early morning. Because of silent heats with weak signs, reduced mounting on concrete floors, growing herds and limited staff, visual observation is not enough. Every missed heat lengthens the calving interval and means direct loss of income.
When should you inseminate?
Under the widely used AM–PM rule, a cow seen in heat in the morning is inseminated that evening, and one seen in the evening is inseminated the next morning. That is why knowing when heat started really matters. Always plan insemination together with your veterinarian.
How does sensor-based heat detection work?
A cow's activity increases markedly during heat. Edell Biosense learns each cow's normal activity pattern and sends an alert when it picks up this increase. Heats that start at night are not missed, you know when heat began, and insemination can be planned at the right time. The calendar in the app automatically tracks insemination and expected calving dates.
What happens as calving approaches?
In the hours before calving, the cow's body temperature drops slightly. The rumen bolus picks up this drop and alerts the herdsman and farm owner that calving is near. You are ready for calving without the need for night checks.
Frequently asked questions
How does it detect heat?
Cows become noticeably more active when they are in heat. The system learns each cow's normal activity pattern, picks up this increase and sends an alert when the insemination window is approaching. Heats that start at night and would otherwise be missed are caught too.
How long does heat last in cows?
The oestrous cycle averages 21 days; standing heat, when the cow accepts mounting, usually lasts 8–18 hours.
When should you inseminate?
Under the common AM–PM rule, a cow seen in heat in the morning is inseminated in the evening, and one seen in the evening the next morning. Plan with your veterinarian.
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