Signs of calving

Watching a cow give birth can be both exciting and stressful, especially if it’s your first time. Understanding what’s normal during calving will help you stay calm and know when to step in or call for help.

Signs calving is approaching

A few weeks before birth, you may notice the cow starting to bag up. This means her udder will begin filling with milk. Closer to calving, the vulva will swell, and you may see a string of clear mucous discharge. These are all normal signs that things are progressing.

If she has the space, the cow will likely move away from the rest of the herd to find a quiet spot. This is instinctive behaviour, giving her some peace and privacy for the birth.

Preparing to give birth

Once she finds a suitable place, the cow will begin preparing a birth site. She may sniff the ground, paw it with her front feet, and turn in circles. These actions are part of her natural routine. As labour progresses, she will get up and down frequently as contractions build.

At this point, you may see a small water bag protruding from the vulva. This is part of the normal birthing process. It contains the calf and usually breaks just before delivery.

Be aware that a large red mass protruding from the vulva is not a water bag. This is likely a prolapse, where the uterus or vagina has turned inside out. It is a serious issue that requires immediate veterinary care.

The birth process

After the water bag breaks, you should see two front feet followed by a nose. This means the calf is coming in the correct position. If you see anything else such as a tail or only one leg something may be wrong. In those cases, gentle manipulation might help, but do not delay calling a vet if you are unsure.

As labour continues, the cow will often stand up and lie down repeatedly, looking around and sniffing the ground where her waters have broken. This is perfectly normal.

Eventually, she will push the calf out. The membranes covering the calf should tear during delivery. Sometimes the calf drops out while the cow is standing, which is also normal.

After the calf is born

The cow will usually stand, turn around, and begin licking the calf to clean it and stimulate breathing. She will also chew away any membranes near the calf’s nose to clear the airway. This early bonding is important.

The umbilical cord will break naturally when the cow turns. That stretching helps reduce bleeding. Do not pull or cut the cord. Let it break once the calf has started to breathe.

The afterbirth will be expelled shortly after the calf. Some cows will eat the afterbirth, which is not unusual. If the afterbirth has not come away within four to five days, seek veterinary advice.

Calving is one of the most important and delicate events on a lifestyle block. If you are new to cattle or want to feel more confident before calving season, our Cattle Breeding course covers practical calving advice, recognising emergencies, and knowing when to call for help.