24/10/2025
Fresh Cow Management Protocol: Day 0–21 Post-Calving
The first three weeks after calving are make-or-break for a dairy cow. Fresh cow care is about proactive monitoring, early intervention, and setting the stage for long-term milk performance.
Here's a step-by-step Fresh Cow Protocol to optimize health, milk, and fertility👇
✅ 1. Immediate Post-Calving Care (Day 0–1)
🔹 Monitor Closely in First 24 Hours
✔️ Observe for:
Retained placenta (not expelled in 12 hrs)
Milk fever (weak, cold ears, muscle tremors)
Uterine prolapse/hemorrhage
Re**al temp
🔹 Oral Fluids & Energy
✔️ Offer warm water with electrolytes within 2 hours of calving
✔️ Consider oral propylene glycol (0.3L/day for 3–5 days) to prevent ketosis in high-risk cows
🔹 Udder Health & Milking
✔️ Check udder for swelling, clots, heat
✔️ Record first milking yield, note abnormalities
✔️ Keep high hygiene during milking, mastitis risk is highest in fresh cows
✅ 2. Fresh Pen Management (Day 1–21)
🔹 Environment & Grouping
✔️ House fresh cows in a clean, dry, comfortable pen
✔️ Avoid overcrowding:
