Inactive fetus

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inyati13

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I have a heifer which should deliver any day. I have put my hands on her right side just above the flank and I believe what I feel is the fetus in the uterus. I have done this now for about a month. I have never seen or felt it move. Is this a reason to be concerned that the calf may be dead? Also, if a cow is carrying a dead calf does it delay or interfer with her delivery?
 
I have never felt a calf move - but, then again, I don't go around feeling for it!
I would not be concerned.
Is she bagging up & getting loose in the vulva and tailhead?
A dead calf "usually" will be presented improperly for delivery.
I think you are a little too anxious. Just relax. Let nature do it's thing.
 
inyati13":2r20xsxw said:
I have a heifer which should deliver any day. I have put my hands on her right side just above the flank and I believe what I feel is the fetus in the uterus. I have done this now for about a month. I have never seen or felt it move. Is this a reason to be concerned that the calf may be dead? Also, if a cow is carrying a dead calf does it delay or interfer with her delivery?
Click to expand...
Glove up and do a rectal palpation (even though you may not know what you're doing). Calf that far along should kick you. ;-)
 
I completely agree with Jeanne on this. I actually have felt for calf movement by pressing against the side of the cow, and rarely (if ever) have had a calf cooperate by moving when I am feeling for it, yet the cow or heifer goes on to have a healthy, vigorous calf. I am against interfering unless there is a very good reason, you stand a greater chance of causing problems when there were none before you decided to "help". I understand the concern though, and speak from experience. Far more often than not I wished I would have left things alone. All of us get anxious when a new baby is involved.
 
And for any other "newbies" reading - be sure to note: it was recommended to glove up and do a RECTAL exam. Never - ever go in the vagina prior to actually assisting a birthing. And never get curious and check their "milk" - do not open up a teat - leave it alone also.
I realize when you only have a few momma cows that you handle & pet - it's so easy to want to feel, pry, see, check. But, mother nature has installed barriers to keep out "germs" and if you start checking things, you contaminate that barrier.
 
I did feel the calf move this morning. In fact, it moved a couple of times. I am not planning on doing any rectal or vaginal exam. I am pleased to just be content that a calf is alive in there! Thanks to all. PS. Here bag is filling out and her external genitalia is very puffy and loose.
 

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