We had a new calf born Friday, I am not sure what the little one's problem was but she would not nurse her mother or get up. I waited 22 hours then loaded her up and took her and mommy to the upper lot so I could give her a bottle. The next day she still could not stand so I kept bottle feeding her.
Then finally on the third day when I helped her up she stood for almost 12 minutes before she sat back down, so I did this off and on. Now today she is finally standing on her own for hours at a time although now I am having trouble getting her to nurse her mom, she just waits for a bottle to be put in her mouth. Her Mom has even gotten used to it, after I give her a bottle her Mom cleans her up like its not upsetting her. Now how do I get her to start nursing? I cant get real close to the cow she is very protective so I keep eye contact with her while feeding the baby. I also keep the Polaris between her and I while bottle feeding so I am afraid to try to put the calf to her by myself and Hubby will not be home until Sunday so any ideas?
The cow will have to be tied short, or in a stanchion if you have one, so she can't turn on you. Part way in the end of a chute would be good, so you could still get to her hindquarters, but her sideways movement would be limited. I remember having similar problems when we raised Herefords.
ReplyDeleteThanks Gorges I have one in the old cattle shoot, have not used it in years it was my dads but should still work. I think I can get her in there by myself and she should not be able to move from side to side. I will try tomorrow morning, wish me luck! :)
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