Winter calving presents unique challenges for cattle producers, including harsh weather conditions, increased nutritional demands, and the need for careful monitoring of both cows and newborn calves. To ensure a successful calving season, preparation, proper nutrition, and effective management practices are essential.
Preparing Facilities and Supplies
Before the calving season begins, evaluate your facilities and ensure they are in proper working order. Check pens, chutes, and alleyways for functionality and make necessary repairs. If you use a calving barn or indoor facility, inspect cameras, batteries, and light bulbs to avoid last-minute issues.
Prepare a well-stocked calving kit in a cooler, bucket, or toolbox, including:
- Colostrum, teat cannula, and feeding bottle
- Flashlight with extra batteries
- OB sleeves and non-detergent lubricant
- Antiseptic
- OB chains and calf puller
- Paper towels and large cloth towels
- Rope halter
Familiarize yourself with the three stages of bovine labor to know when and how to intervene. For newborn calves, prompt colostrum intake is critical. If you are unsure whether a calf has nursed adequately, administer colostrum via a tube feeder as soon as possible to support immunity and survival.
Addressing Nutritional Needs in Cold Weather
Cold and wet weather significantly increase the nutritional requirements of cows. Tools like the Mesonet Cattle Comfort Advisor can help monitor weather conditions and guide feeding adjustments.
Key considerations include:
- Cow energy needs rise by 1% for every degree below a cattle comfort index of 32°F. If the cow is wet, the energy requirement doubles to 2%.
- Newborn calves face additional challenges transitioning from the 101-102°F warmth of the womb to outdoor temperatures, which may be drastically colder. Exposure to rain, snow, mud, or wind increases the risk of hypothermia, which can lead to infections like navel ill, pneumonia, and scours.
Cold Weather Calving Best Practices
To minimize risks and support cow and calf health during winter calving:
- Provide Shelter: Ensure adequate windbreaks, shelter, and dry bedding to create a protected environment for calving.
- Plan Nutrition: Adjust feeding programs to meet the increased protein and energy needs of cows in the final trimester and early lactation.
- Manage Heifers Separately: First-calf heifers often require additional care and attention during calving and the initial bonding period with their calves.
By focusing on preparation, nutrition, and proper management, producers can mitigate challenges associated with winter calving and improve outcomes for both cows and calves.
