If the calf is coming forwards, the most common reasons they are not coming normally is a head back or a leg back. This is fixed by using a rope to pull the head or leg into place. Due to the size of cows, the weight of the calf, and the pressure inside the uterus it can be difficult to get a rope around the bit you need to pull it into place. Our biggest tips will be to push the calf back, further into the uterus, as it gives you more room to manipulate. Whenever manipulating a calf, you should always use lots of lubrication, as not only will it make this easier, it will prevent you caus- ing any damage or tears to the cow. If you are struggling then you may need veterinary assis- tance. There may be a lack of room, for example with twins. But we can give drugs that relax the uterine muscles, allowing more space as it prevents the contracting uterus from getting smaller.
Large calf
Even if a calf is coming in the normal presentation, it does not always mean the calving will be simple. Sometimes the calf is simply too large, or the mother too small in her pelvis and the sooner this is identified and the vet is called, the higher chance of a positive outcome.
Tell - tale signs that suggest a calf is too large
the front legs will cross if the shoulders are too wide you cant comfortably place a hand around the back of the head and past the shoulders
Remember!!
The shoulders are not always the widest part of the calf, specially if you have used a bull with double muscling. The bum can be larger than the shoulders and can cause “ hip lock ” when it is too big. This can be difficult to fix and often results in the fatality of the calf and damage to the dam.
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