by Kirk Ramsey, Neogen

“Be Prepared” is a motto to live by, especially during calving season. With that in mind, here are a few items that are essential to have on hand, plus some best-practice tips to consider:

• Obstetrical (OB) chains and handles — Chains are strong and are meant to be used with OB handles. They are also the preferred instrument when using a calf puller. A quality chain and handle will last a lifetime if properly cared for. Make sure they are always cleaned and dried after each use; old rusty chains are a biosecurity hazard and can be dangerous to use. Make sure chains are placed correctly, with the first loop over the calf’s fetlock and a half-hitch placed below the fetlock and above the hoof. Remember, chains are always placed on the top of the foot and never below.
• Clean, dry towels — Clean, dry towels are a lifesaver during calving. These can be used throughout the calving process and are critical for drying off a newborn calf and stimulating breathing.
• Stainless-steel bucket — A well-made metal bucket is a treasured item for every operation, and its uses are innumerable. For calving, however, use it to hold clean, warm water, which is essential for keeping hands and arms clean, as well as cleaning the instruments you use during calving. This is an important measure of biosecurity for yourself, the dam and her calf.
• Calf jack — A calf jack or calf puller can be an incredibly useful instrument to aid in dystocia or a difficult calving. However, remember that a calf jack can apply more than 2,000 pounds of force. It is critical that they be used appropriately by trained individuals and only when absolutely necessary.
• OB lube — OB lube is an essential item to assist with difficult births or manual interventions, such as repositioning or pulling a calf. It helps reduce friction and ensures a gentler process during prolonged or complicated calving.
• Calving head snare — A head snare is vital for aiding dystocia. This instrument keeps the head engaged through the pelvis and prevents it from turning when force is applied to the legs. Always ensure proper use and that the snare is cinched into the mouth of the calf and not around the neck.
• Colostrum replacer — The timing of feeding colostrum, its quality, and the quantity fed are the three most important factors for newborn calves. It is recommended that the calf receives 10%-12% of its body weight in colostrum within the first two to three hours of life. The quality of colostrum can be determined by using a Brix refractometer or a colostrometer. Colostrum should contain at least 50 grams per liter (g/L) of immunoglobulin (IgG); anything below 20 g/L should not be relied upon to ensure passive transfer of antibodies. If colostrum is unobtainable from the dam or is not of excellent quality, a colostrum replacer should be used.
• Esophageal tube feeder — For weak calves, you may need to use an esophageal tube feeder to administer colostrum or fluids. Keep in mind that, while metal tube feeders may last longer, the feeder’s inflexibility can damage the upper airways and esophagus if the calf is not restrained properly. Flexible tube feeders are usually semi-ridged plastic and allow for flexibility that is safer and may reduce the risk of injury to the calf.
• Clean bottles and nipples — In situations where a calf is unable to nurse from the dam, colostrum or milk replacer can be given to the calf via bottle.
• Calf blanket — In cold and wet conditions, a calf blanket is important to help newborn calves maintain their body temperature and reduce the risk of hypothermia.
• Heat lamp or livestock warmer — A heat lamp or livestock warmer box can offer the additional warmth needed to help newborn calves regulate their body temperature and avoid hypothermia during harsh weather conditions.
• Medications — Speak with your veterinarian to determine whether you should have antibiotics or anti-inflammatories on hand, in the case of difficult calving.

The calving process usually occurs without concern; however, it’s good practice to be prepared for the unexpected. Keep these thoughts in mind as you embark on a successful calving season.

Editor’s note: Kirk Ramsey is a professional services veterinarian with Neogen and invites you to visit neogen.com/industries/beef for more information. [Lead photo by Lynsey McAnally.]

Angus Beef Bulletin EXTRA, Vol. 17, No. 2-B