Highland Cow Gestation Calculator
Here’s a comprehensive table detailing all you need to know about the gestation period of Highland cows:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Gestation Period | 283 days (approximately 9 months) |
| Range of Gestation | 279 to 287 days |
| Breeding Season | Year-round, but optimal in spring/summer |
| Calving Season | Spring (March to May) and Fall (September to November) are preferred |
| Signs of Pregnancy | – Absence of estrus (heat) |
| – Increased abdominal size | |
| – Udder development | |
| – Changes in behavior (more docile) | |
| Pregnancy Diagnosis | – Ultrasound (28-35 days post-breeding) |
| – Palpation (rectal, after 40-60 days) | |
| – Blood tests (28 days post-breeding) | |
| Care During Gestation | – Proper nutrition (high-quality forage) |
| – Regular veterinary check-ups | |
| – Vaccinations (as recommended by vet) | |
| – Parasite control | |
| – Access to clean water | |
| Pre-Calving Signs | – Udder fills with milk |
| – Vulva becomes swollen and loose | |
| – Cow separates from the herd | |
| – Restlessness and frequent lying down | |
| Calving Process | – Three stages: labor, delivery, and afterbirth |
| – Labor: 2-6 hours (contractions begin) | |
| – Delivery: 30 minutes to 1 hour (calf born) | |
| – Afterbirth: Expelled within 12 hours | |
| Post-Calving Care | – Ensure calf nurses colostrum within 2 hours |
| – Monitor cow and calf for complications | |
| – Provide a clean and dry environment | |
| – Ensure adequate nutrition for the cow |
This table covers the critical aspects of Highland cow gestation, from the average gestation period to post-calving care. Proper management and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure the health of both the cow and the calf.