Overview
Cattle gestation varies by breed, with dairy cattle averaging 275-282 days and beef breeds 283-294 days.
Signs of Pregnancy
- ✓Changes in appetite and behavior
- ✓Weight gain and abdominal enlargement
- ✓Mammary gland development
- ✓Nesting behavior near due date
Early Stage (First Third)
Confirmation and Initial Care
The early stage is critical for embryo development. Focus on confirming pregnancy and establishing proper care routines.
🍽️Nutrition in Early Stage
- • Maintain regular diet - avoid sudden changes
- • Ensure high-quality protein sources
- • Provide fresh water at all times
- • Add folic acid supplements if recommended
💚Care Guidelines
- • Confirm pregnancy through veterinary examination
- • Maintain normal exercise routine
- • Avoid stress and sudden environmental changes
- • Begin monitoring weight and appetite
Mid Stage (Second Third)
Rapid Growth Period
During mid-pregnancy, the fetus grows rapidly. Nutritional needs increase significantly during this period.
🍽️Nutrition in Mid Stage
- • Gradually increase food intake by 25-50%
- • Add calcium and phosphorus supplements
- • Provide multiple small meals throughout the day
- • Include omega-3 fatty acids for fetal development
💙Care Guidelines
- • Schedule mid-pregnancy veterinary check-up
- • Monitor weight gain carefully
- • Reduce strenuous exercise
- • Watch for signs of complications
Late Stage (Final Third)
Preparation for Birth
The final stage requires careful monitoring and preparation for delivery. The mother needs maximum support during this time.
🍽️Nutrition in Late Stage
- • Continue increased feeding - may need 50-75% more
- • Provide easily digestible, nutrient-dense foods
- • Ensure adequate calcium for milk production
- • Keep water always available
💜Care Guidelines
- • Prepare clean, quiet birthing area
- • Monitor closely for signs of labor
- • Restrict exercise to gentle walks
- • Have veterinary emergency contacts ready
Complete Dietary Guidelines
🥩 Protein
Essential for fetal development and milk production
🦴 Calcium
Critical for bone development and preventing eclampsia
💊 Vitamins
A, D, E for immune system and development
⚡ Minerals
Iron, zinc, selenium for overall health
💧 Water
Unlimited access to fresh, clean water
Pregnancy Milestones
Breeding Date
Day 0
Day of insemination or breeding
Mid-Pregnancy Check
Day 140
Veterinary examination recommended
Dry Period Begins
60 days before due date
Stop milking dairy cows
Close Monitoring
14 days before due date
Watch for signs of labor
Birth Preparation Checklist
- • Prepare a clean, quiet, and comfortable birthing area
- • Have emergency veterinary contact information readily available
- • Gather necessary supplies (clean towels, heating pad, etc.)
- • Monitor closely for signs of labor
- • Ensure the mother is calm and stress-free
Warning Signs - When to Call a Vet
Contact your veterinarian immediately if you observe:
- ⚠️ Prolonged labor without progress (more than 2 hours of active straining)
- ⚠️ Excessive bleeding or abnormal discharge
- ⚠️ Signs of distress (excessive panting, weakness, collapse)
- ⚠️ Failure to deliver all offspring within expected timeframe
Post-Birth Care
- ✓Monitor mother and offspring closely for first 24 hours
- ✓Ensure all offspring are nursing properly
- ✓Watch for signs of infection or complications
- ✓Schedule post-birth veterinary check-up