When they show signs of calving, dairy cattle should be moved to a maternity pen to facilitate more frequent observations than is possible in some management situations. For cows that may require assistance during parturition, individual pens improve postpartum recovery and also improve the calf's well-being during the critical first few days after birth.  Regardless of where calves are born, they should be given colostrum within an hour after birth for the immunities conveyed in the colostrum. This pen was bedded with straw. Sand, saw dust and wood shavings are acceptable alternatives. Maternity pens should be sanitized before each calving.

Maternity pen with cow and calf

Credit: Hoard's Dairyman

Digital Credit: Michel Wattiaux

Publisher: Unknown

Rights: Name must appear as a credit whenever the image is used -

Description: When they show signs of calving, dairy cattle should be moved to a maternity pen to facilitate more frequent observations than is possible in some management situations. For cows that may require assistance during parturition, individual pens improve postpartum recovery and also improve the calf's well-being during the critical first few days after birth. Regardless of where calves are born, they should be given colostrum within an hour after birth for the immunities conveyed in the colostrum. This pen was bedded with straw. Sand, saw dust and wood shavings are acceptable alternatives. Maternity pens should be sanitized before each calving.

Resolution: 3008x1960

File Size: 4.48 MB