How to calculate the due date of a cow
The expected calving date of a cow refers to the length of time from pregnancy to calving. For farmers, predicting the expected calving date of a cow is very important for breeding cattle and managing calving. Here are a few common ways to calculate a cow’s due date.
Prediction based on cow pregnancy time
Usually the pregnancy time of cattle is 280 days, which can generally be calculated based on the time of breeding and artificial insemination. If you are unsure about the time of breeding or artificial insemination, you can estimate based on the last time the cow was in heat. A basic estimate is to add 18 to 24 days to the cow\’s last estrus to get the pregnancy time. Because cows ovulate at different times, there is usually a certain error in the expected date of delivery obtained by this method.
Prediction based on body temperature changes
Before a cow calves, its body temperature changes. Generally, the normal body temperature of cattle is 38~39°C. If the body temperature of cattle is found to be around 37°C for 1 to 2 days, it is likely to indicate that the cattle will gradually let go of the uterine opening and enter labor state. At this time, the expected date of delivery is usually 3 to 4 days left. Although this method is not accurate, it can still be used as a reference for roughly predicting the due date.
Methods to improve the calving success rate of cows
Cow reproduction is a very important part of the breeding industry, and improving the calving success rate of cows is very important for farmers.
Strengthen nutritional management of cows
The nutritional status of cows has a great impact on pregnancy and calving, and farmers should strengthen nutritional management of cows. In addition to proper feeding, you also need to pay attention to the digestion and excretion of cows, and conduct physical examinations on cows in a timely manner to ensure that their bodies are in good condition.
Properly arrange the production and raising of cows
Reasonable arrangements are required for the production and raising of cows, because the postpartum condition of cows is more complicated. In order to avoid malnutrition or other diseases, farmers should prepare cattle pens in advance, as well as appropriate cold protection and epidemic prevention measures to ensure the reproduction level of cows.
Regular inspection of cows
Breeders need to check the physical condition of cows regularly so that cow diseases can be detected and dealt with promptly. When the cow is affected by external factors, such as physiological health care, or is affected by environmental temperature, the cow needs to be medically examined.
Summary
In breeding cattle, accurate prediction of a cow\’s due date is important in managing both calving and breeding cattle. Predicting the due date of cattle can be based on pregnancy time or body temperature changes. At the same time, in terms of improving the calving rate of cows, farmers can strengthen the nutritional management of cows, reasonably arrange the production and raising of cows, and conduct regular inspections of cows. These measures can help improve the calving success rate of the cow and ensure a healthy and happy life for the cow.
