Overview: Learn what your cow needs 60 days before calving to ensure healthy calves and smooth deliveries. All Around Ag provides quality hay and supplies in Laramie County, WY. Read on!
Calving season doesn’t just happen — it’s prepared for. The 60 days leading up to calving are some of the most critical for your cow herd’s health, productivity, and future calf performance. This is the time to fine-tune nutrition, manage body condition, and ensure your cows are set up for a smooth delivery and strong milk production.
At All Around Ag, we understand how much is riding on the success of your calving season. Here’s a look at what your cow needs in those final 60 days before she calves.
The Right Body Condition
Cows entering calving in moderate body condition (a body condition score around 5–6) tend to have fewer complications and rebreed faster. Too thin, and you risk weak calves and low milk. Too heavy, and calving difficulties increase. Evaluating and adjusting feed at this stage makes all the difference.
Balanced Nutrition
The cow’s nutritional demands rise steadily in late gestation. Your feed program should focus on:
Quality forage: Grass or mixed hay for rumen health. Options like North Park Timothy Grass or Orchard/Brome/Timothy with light alfalfa can provide dependable nutrition.
Protein: Cow alfalfa or an orchard/alfalfa mix can help maintain adequate protein levels, supporting fetal growth and colostrum production.
Energy: Meeting energy needs keeps cows from losing weight while preparing for lactation.
Essential Minerals & Vitamins
Late gestation is the time to double down on mineral supplementation. Key players include:
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Calcium and phosphorus are for bone development.
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Magnesium to prevent calving-related metabolic disorders.
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Vitamins A, D, and E for calf vigor and immune strength.
A well-balanced mineral program ensures stronger calves and healthier cows heading into lactation.
Also Read >> Which Feed is Best for Cows to Increase Milk
Clean, Comfortable Calving Environment
Nutrition matters, but so does the environment your cows will calve in. Start preparing pens or sheltered areas with plenty of clean, dry bedding. Straw bales can serve double duty here — nutritionally for some uses, and practically as bedding material. A clean environment reduces stress and disease risk for both cows and calves.
Consistency & Care
In the final 60 days, sudden feed changes or stressors can set back the progress you’ve worked for. Keep rations consistent, handle cattle calmly, and give them the space they need to settle into late gestation without unnecessary disruptions.
Final Word
Calving success doesn’t come by chance — it’s built in the 60 days before the calf hits the ground. By focusing on body condition, nutrition, minerals, and environment, you give your herd the foundation for healthy deliveries and thriving calves.
At All Around Ag, we’re here to help you find the right hay and supplies to carry your herd through calving season. From protein-rich alfalfa to dependable Timothy grass and straw bales for pens, we’ve got what your herd needs to stay on track.