Calving season is a critical time for any cow-calf operation. Preparation is key to ensuring smooth deliveries and minimizing complications. Having a well-stocked calving kit can save time and reduce stress when assisting cows and newborn calves. Below is a checklist of essential items categorized for pre-calving, post-calving, and medical needs.
Pre-Calving Essentials
Gather these items at least four weeks before the first expected calving date.
- Veterinarian’s phone number – Have it readily available in case of emergencies.
- Warm clothing – Wear bibs and a coat that can be removed for better mobility.
- Headlamp – A high-quality, hands-free light is crucial for nighttime deliveries.
- Restraining device – A halter or chute for safely securing the cow.
- Disinfectant – Use udder wash or iodine to clean gloves and the cow’s vulva.
- Long plastic gloves (OB sleeves) – Protects both the cow and the handler.
- Bucket with warm water – Necessary for cleaning and sanitization.
- Clean towels and paper towels – For drying and cleaning.
- Lubricant (veterinary OB lubricant) – Essential for assisting with difficult births.
- Calf puller (calf jack) – Use only with proper training to prevent injury.
- OB chains and two handles – Proper placement helps with assisted delivery.
- Iodine (7%) and scissors – For navel cord disinfection and trimming.
- Dental floss – For tying off the navel cord if bleeding persists.
- Clean straw – Useful for stimulating the calf to breathe.
Post-Calving Essentials
Ensure these items are available for immediate care after birth.
- Veterinarian’s phone number
- Calf warming box or coats – Helps prevent hypothermia.
- Colostrum supply – Fresh, frozen, or commercial colostrum for calves needing supplementation.
- Nipple bottle and esophageal feeder – Ensures the calf receives adequate colostrum intake within the first six hours.
- Calf claim products – Useful for bonding and encouraging nursing.
- Syringes and needles – 3-10 cc (18 gauge x 1” for calves); 16 gauge x 1.5” for cows.
- Identification tags, marker, tagger – Keep records organized.
- Castration bander – For early castration if necessary.
Medicine Cabinet Essentials
These items help manage common health issues in cows and calves.
- Thermometer – Critical for diagnosing illness.
- Oxytocin – Assists with milk let-down.*
- Penicillin – Prescription required for off-label use.*
- Long-acting systemic antibiotic*
- Anti-inflammatory medications – Meloxicam, flunixin meglumine.*
- Sulfamethazine tablets – For treating coccidia in calves over three weeks old.*
- Electrolytes – Essential for treating dehydration in scouring calves.
- Probiotics – Supports gut health.
- Vitamin B complex – Promotes recovery and appetite.
Discuss With Your Veterinarian
Some medications are region-specific and depend on herd health history and nutritional factors. Consider discussing the following items with your vet:
- Vitamin E & Selenium*
- Iron supplements
- Vitamin A & D
For those comfortable with IV and epidural administration, additional supplies include:
- *2% Lidocaine (local anesthetic)
- 23% Calcium Gluconate*
- 50% Dextrose
- Hypertonic saline*
- 0.9% Sodium chloride or lactated ringers
- IV administration setup
*Items marked with an asterisk require a veterinary prescription and a valid Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship (VCPR).
By assembling these essential supplies in advance, you can handle calving season with greater confidence and efficiency, ensuring the health and well-being of both cows and calves.
