Calving season is one of the most important — and often most intense — periods of the farming year. Long nights, unpredictable weather, and the constant watch for signs of labour all come together in a season that demands skill, patience, and quick decision‑making.
Whether you’re managing a large herd or a small family farm, understanding the calving process can make a world of difference to both cow and calf outcomes. This blog walks through the key stages of calving, what to look for, and how your veterinary team can support you when things don’t go to plan.
Recognising the Signs of Labour
Most cows will show subtle changes before calving begins. Restlessness, separating from the herd, udder filling, and softening of the pelvic ligaments are all early indicators. As labour progresses, you may see increased tail lifting, mucus discharge, and contractions.
Knowing these signs helps you intervene early if something isn’t progressing normally — and early intervention is often the difference between a smooth calving and a complicated one.
The Stages of Calving
Calving happens in three stages:
Stage 1: Preparation
The cervix dilates and contractions begin. This stage can last several hours. The cow may appear uncomfortable, lie down and stand repeatedly, or wander away from the herd.
Stage 2: Delivery of the Calf
This is the active stage of labour. You should see the water bag, followed by the calf’s feet and nose. Once the calf enters the birth canal, delivery should progress steadily. If there’s no progress within 30 minutes, or if the cow is straining without visible movement, it’s time to call for help.
Stage 3: Passing the Placenta
The placenta is usually expelled within a few hours. Retained placentas can lead to infection, so monitoring is important.
When Things Don’t Go Smoothly
Even experienced farmers encounter difficult calvings. Common issues include:
- Malpresentations (calf coming backwards or sideways)
- Oversized calves
- Twins
- Uterine torsion
- Cow exhaustion
These situations require skilled assistance. Your veterinary team can assess the cow, correct calf positioning, assist with delivery, or perform a caesarean if needed.
How We Support You During Calving Season
Our role is to help you achieve the best outcomes for both cows and calves. We provide:
- On‑farm calving assistance
- Emergency support for difficult births
- Newborn calf checks
- Advice on nutrition, colostrum management, and calf health
- Post‑calving care for cows, including treatment for retained placentas or infections
We know calving season can be stressful, exhausting, and unpredictable — but you don’t have to manage it alone.
Healthy Calves Start With Good Decisions
Good calving outcomes rely on preparation, observation, and timely intervention. When you understand what’s normal and what’s not, you’re better equipped to act quickly and confidently.
And when you need help, we’re only a phone call away.
If you have any concerns or want personalised advice for your cows, our Snowy Vets team is always here to help.
📍 Snowy Vets – Cooma & Jindabyne – 6455 7800
🐾 Compassionate care for every dog, every day.
