Obstetrics on the ranch

By Arden Wohlers DVM
Extension Veterinarian
University of Nebraska Panhandle Research and Education Center

We are about to enter that wonderful time of year when most animals are born. If left alone an animal gives birth with no problems most of the time. Wild animals seldom have problems when giving birth. Man has disturbed this natural order of nature with the domestication of animals and the continual striving to be more productive in animal agriculture. Until 50 years ago production methods had evolved at a rate slow enough that management practices could compensate for disturbing this orderly process. Rapid change came about in the 1960’s and 1970’s that necessitated a dramatic turn in how reproduction in cattle was dealt with. Three changes occurred during this time period that sought to increase beef production. Faster growing cattle were selected for; this was aided by the introduction of larger breeds of cattle from continental Europe. A quick change to these new blood lines was made possible with the increased use of artificial insemination. The next big change occurring in the early 1970’s was breeding heifers to calve a year earlier than what had been practiced for many years. The third change was to calve in late winter rather than in the spring so calves would be larger at weaning time. These changes made economic sense at the time, but they created management problems for the rancher.

The earlier calving period meant animals had to be provided with more shelter during the expected inclement weather and additional feed was needed to sustain the cow in the colder weather while she produced adequate milk for the new calf. The closer confinement needed for weather protection also increased the chances for disease to spread. This meant more attention to sanitation and disease prevention was necessary.

The larger calves coupled with the younger age of the calving heifers created an emergency situation for the rancher, often needing to help with the birth of the calf. The need to assist the cow in birth because of abnormal presentations was now complicated by the calves being absolutely too large to come through the birth canal. During the 1970’s and 80’s caesarean sections in cattle became common place. The rancher has come close to solving this problem in the last decade by being careful with genetic selection. By choosing sires that produce small calves which can still grow fast after birth, the number of c-sections needed have been greatly reduced. Ranchers are once again in a situation were they can assist with most of the difficult births they may encounter without calling for veterinary assistance. The experienced rancher has learned to monitor the cow for continual progress during the birthing process and be able to recognize when progress has stopped and assistance is required.

Basic obstetrical procedures can take place after the cow has been adequately restrained for examination. The perineal area of the cow and the arms of the examiner should be scrubbed with a gentle soap. Ranchers can then put on plastic obstetrical sleeves to protect their arms. It is then necessary to determine if the fetus is presented properly with the two front feet and head in the birth canal. If not they must be moved into that position before delivery is attempted. Obstetrical lubrication should be liberally applied to the fetus so manipulations are easier to perform. It may be necessary to push the calf back into the uterus in order to have room to bring a leg or the head into the proper position. A calf can be delivered backwards if the hind feet are brought into the canal first. Obstetrical chains can be attached to the legs and gentle traction applied to the calf to complete the delivery. Inexperienced producers should discuss more complicated techniques with their veterinarian or request assistance. After the delivery is completed the calf’s breathing should be stimulated and adequate warmth provided. It is very important that a calf nurses within a couple of hours or it may be necessary to orally administer the first milk, called colostrum, that is critical for health throughout his life.

Related article: "Farm Animal Obstetrics" from Alaska Extension

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