Cow behavior question...

[navygirl]

We have a new calf here at our tiny ranch (I believe as of today). First time mom... and first for me too. No experience with calving. So mom is about 10 feet away from baby and lowing. She let me get close enough to check baby out. Baby is dry, curled up and sleeping peacefully. Saw it breathing and flicking its little ears. Don't know if we have a boy or girl yet. Mom is keeping her pasture-mate away from baby (I only had two heifers, both preggers).
So finally, the question... is mom behaving normally?
Question two... the stock tank is tall and I don't think baby can reach it. I should add a small tank of water for baby to reach, yes?

[jill.costello]

I though babies were only supposed to drink milk for a certain amount of time....if they start "nursing" water, they'll get scours, right?

I NEVER have a bucket or tank of water near any newborn on my farm that they could possibly get into and drown..... buckets are hung high enough for mommas only until the wee ones are good and sturdy on their legs!

[navygirl]

Thanks so much. No water for baby just yet then. I'm sure baby has been nursing because its all clean and dry and QUIET. Hungry babies are not quiet. I am very curious why mom is lowing though.....

[gone-a-milkin]

Congrats on the new calf.

The most important thing is to be sure that the baby is nursing.
I would watch carefully until I am sure it can latch onto the udder,
and then make sure it is pooping.

If she is a new mama it might take her a little time to get in the routine.
I have seen plenty of cows stand off and protect their babies.

You could carry a stick with you and go out there and lift that little tail up & check.
Chances are the mama will come right over and collect her calf from you, maybe nurse it.

The stick is only if she gets really mad and charges at you. Which is RARE, but its good to have a stick, IMO. You can just give her a little sting on the nose, and get out safely.

[navygirl]

Super! Thanks lots!

[gone-a-milkin]

Just make sure you step back from the baby as the mama approaches.

The calf will probably jump right up when you lift its tail.
Then the mama will come over and make sure it is still okay.
Do stay safe though and never turn your back on a new mom.

[gone-a-milkin]

Oh, and you should take your camera.

[tinknal]

If a calf's mouth is warm it has nursed. If it is cold it has not.

I guarantee it.

[gone-a-milkin]

Originally Posted by tinknal

If a calf's mouth is warm it has nursed. If it is cold it has not.

I guarantee it.

Oh, you are right! It is warm. And slimy.
You just stick your finger in there. A lively new calf will latch right on.

[gone-a-milkin]

Also, it wouldnt be a bad idea to get some iodine onto the calf's umbilical cord.
It is August, and the flies have been pretty daunting, at least here. If you can.