EnglishSigns of calving in cows and calving monitoring
Gestation in cattle lasts about 283 days on average. As calving approaches, the udder fills, the area around the tailhead sinks, the cow becomes restless and her body temperature drops slightly. Systems that continuously measure this temperature drop warn you in advance that calving is near, reducing night checks.
Gestation length and expected calving date
Gestation in cattle lasts about 283 days on average (roughly 9.5 months); it can vary by a few days depending on breed and the sex of the calf. The expected calving date is calculated from the insemination record. The calendar in the Edell Biosense app tracks these dates automatically.
Signs that calving is approaching
- Udder filling and becoming firm
- Relaxed ligaments and a sunken area around the tailhead
- Swollen, relaxed vulva and discharge
- Restlessness, frequently lying down and getting up, separating from the herd
- Reduced appetite
- A slight drop in body temperature
The pre-calving temperature drop
In the hours before calving, the cow’s body temperature shows a slight but measurable drop. This change cannot be seen by eye, but it can be picked up by continuous temperature measurement. When Edell Biosense detects this drop, it sends a “calving approaching” notification to the herdsman and farm owner.
Stages of calving
- Preparatory stage: Uterine contractions begin and the cow is restless.
- Delivery stage: The water bag appears and the calf is born.
- Final stage: The afterbirth (placenta) is expelled.
If calving is not progressing, the calf is not presented normally or the afterbirth is retained for a long time, call your veterinarian without delay.
Why calving monitoring matters
Timely intervention protects the health of both cow and calf. Constant checks to avoid missing night calvings, however, wear the herdsman out. Knowing in advance that calving is near puts you in the right place at the right time and reduces the workload.
The days after calving
In the first days after calving, fever can be the first sign of problems such as metritis or ketosis. Closely monitoring body temperature and activity during this period helps you detect problems early.
Frequently asked questions
How long is a cow pregnant?
Gestation in cattle lasts about 283 days (roughly 9.5 months) on average.
How can you tell a cow is close to calving?
A full udder, a sunken tailhead area, restlessness and a slight drop in body temperature are the main signs.
When should you call the vet during calving?
Call a veterinarian without delay if calving is not progressing, the calf is not presented normally or the afterbirth is retained for a long time.
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