02/22/2026
It’s that time of year again, calving season is here! Many of you have started and others are enjoying the calm before the calving storm. Make sure you have done a final inventory of supplies to ensure you’re ready for whatever comes your way this season! Here is a list of supplies to help!
•OB sleeves
•OB l**e - J-Lube contraindicated during calving season, especially if a C-Section is an option as it causes fatal peritonitis.
•OB chains and handles - clean thoroughly between uses.
•Calf puller
•Disinfectant and Naval dip- dilute iodine, betadine, or chlorhexadine solution are good choices.
•Colostrum REPLACER - recommended there be a minimum of 100g IgG per dose, it is important a calf gets their first dose within 2 hours of birth, don’t get this confused with colostrum supplement.
•Milk replacer
•Electrolytes
•Bottle and esophageal/tube feeder (recommend 1 for newborn calves and one for sick calves).
•Thermometer - normal temperature is 100-102.5F - seek warming measures when re**al temperature drops below 100F (recommend 1 for newborn calves and one for sick calves).
•Warming system - calf warmer, warm room in the barn/house, warm bath (make sure they are dry, standing, and strong enough be returned to the cow).
•Medications - may include injectable vitamins, injectable and/or intranasal vaccines, and antibiotics.
•Sterile needles and syringes
•Don’t forget your hot coffee!
And last but not least, have your regular veterinarian’s number easily accessible! Our number is (406)930-3995.
See Beef Cattle Research Council for more great information https://www.beefresearch.ca
