Essential Supplies You Need to Prepare for Calving Season Success

Calving season is one of the most demanding times for cattle producers, especially in Montana where it can stretch from January through May. Being ready with the right supplies can make all the difference between a smooth calving process and a stressful, chaotic one. When emergencies arise, having everything organized and accessible saves valuable time and helps protect the health of both cows and calves.

Getting your supplies ready well before calving begins is key. We'll go over and walk you through the essential items you need, tips for maintaining your equipment, and how to stay prepared for any situation that might come up during this critical season.

Calving supplies neatly arranged for quick access

Check and Maintain Your Facilities and Equipment

Before gathering supplies, inspect your calving area thoroughly. Walk through chutes, gates, and pens to ensure everything works smoothly. Broken gates or malfunctioning chutes can cause delays or injuries during calving.

Clean and sanitize all equipment you plan to use. This reduces the risk of infections for newborn calves and their mothers. Store supplies in a central, easy-to-reach location so you can find what you need quickly, even in the dark or bad weather.

Essential Supplies to Have on Hand

Here’s a detailed list of the most important items to prepare for calving season:

• Disinfectant and Bucket

Use chlorhexidine or iodine solutions to clean equipment and sanitize the cow’s vulva before assisting with delivery. A dedicated bucket makes it easy to carry and use disinfectant where needed.

• Shoulder-Length Disposable Gloves

These gloves protect you and the cow during delivery. Stock up on enough pairs to change frequently.

• Stainless Steel OB Chains and OB Handle

These tools help gently assist difficult births. Make sure your chains are in good condition and not rusted or frayed.

• OB Lubricant

Lubrication reduces friction and helps ease the calf’s passage during delivery.

• Calf Puller

This device provides controlled traction to assist in difficult births without causing injury.

• Thermometer

Monitoring the temperature of newborn calves helps detect early signs of illness.

• Bottle and Nipple Feeder

For calves that cannot nurse immediately, having a bottle and nipple feeder ensures they get colostrum and fluids.

• Colostrum and Colostrum Supplement

Colostrum provides essential antibodies to newborn calves. Keep frozen colostrum or supplements ready in case the mother’s supply is insufficient.

• Electrolytes

Calves can become dehydrated quickly. Electrolyte solutions help maintain hydration and energy.

• Tube Feeder/Esophagus Feeder

This tool allows you to feed colostrum or fluids directly into the calf’s stomach if it cannot suckle.

• Ear Tags and Tagger

Identification is important for tracking health and growth. Have tags and a tagger ready for branding season.

• Calf Vaccinations and Supplements

Prepare vaccines and supplements recommended by your veterinarian to protect calves from common diseases.

• Clean Towels

Towels help dry calves and keep them warm after birth.

Organizing Your Supplies for Quick Access

Arrange your supplies so you can grab what you need without delay. Use labeled bins or shelves and keep frequently used items at eye level. Consider creating a checklist to track your inventory and restock items before they run out.

Keep your supplies protected from weather and pests. A clean, dry storage area near the calving pens works best.

Planning for Emergencies and Health Management

Calving emergencies can happen anytime. Having a plan and the right supplies ready helps you respond quickly. Pintler Veterinary Service offers support for emergencies, peri-partum cow issues, and calf health management. Working with a veterinarian before calving season can help you develop a herd health plan tailored to your operation.

Timing Your Inventory Checks

Start inventorying your supplies several months before calving begins. This gives you time to order replacements or additional items. As calving approaches, check your supplies again to make sure everything is in place and ready to use.

Pintler Veterinary is here for any and all of your calving needs. Please do not hesitate to give us a call with any questions or support you may need this calving season!