About 80% of all calves lost at birth are anatomically normal. Most deaths are due to injuries or suffocation resulting from calving or delayed calving. Knowing when and how to assist can make a big difference in the calf crop from year to year.



When and how to assist the cow:




  • Do NOT use liquid soap as a lubricant. It breaks down the natural lubricant of the cow. Methylcellulose-based lube is best. You can also use cooking oil, mineral oil or vaseline.

  • Calving area should be 120 sq. ft. (10' × 12') minimum, covered, well lit and well bedded.

  • Assess the situation by asking these four questions — in order — each time during an assist: Has the cervix dilated? Is the water sac broken? Is the calf in the proper position? Can the calf pass through the pelvis?

  • You can tell if the cervix is dilated by sliding your palm along the vaginal wall toward the uterus. You should not feel the cervix or any cervical ridges (they should be continuous and smooth). Assisting prior to full dilation can damage the cow and injure the calf.





  • Pull alternately on each leg to “walk” the shoulders out. At this point, traction should be applied straight back toward the tail head. All traction should be applied gradually to prevent damage that will result in later infertility of the cow.


  • If the calf becomes “hip locked,” the umbilical can be pinched. If delivery is delayed, make sure the calf begins breathing normally and call for professional help.


Other tips: It's best for a cow to lie on her left side so the rumen lies under and not on top of the calf. Always set the cow back up after birth to avoid bloat.

University of Missouri-Columbia

Table 1. Stages of normal delivery
Stage and time event
Preparatory (2-6 hours)
1. Calf rotates to upright position
2. Uterine contractions begin
3. Water sac expelled
Delivery (1 hour or less)
1. Cow usually lying down
2. Fetus enters birth canal
3. Front feet and head protrude first
4. Calf delivery complete
Cleaning (2-8 hours)
1. Button attachments on placenta relax
2. Uterine contractions expel membranes