Cow Pregnancy Calculator — Calving Due Date (283 Days)
Calculate your cow's calving date from breeding using the standard 283-day bovine gestation. Includes dry-off and vaccination milestones for dairy operations.
Calculator
Gestation: 279–287 days (avg 283).
d1–942nd trimester
d95–1883rd trimester
d189–283
Upcoming milestones
- Pregnancy confirmationUltrasound or blood test (Biopryn) confirms pregnancy.Day 30June 15, 2026
- Palpation windowVet can palpate for pregnancy confirmation.Day 60July 15, 2026
- Dry off dairy cowsAllow 60-day dry period before calving.Day 200December 2, 2026
- Pre-calving vaccinationsScours, IBR, BVD vaccines 30–60 days pre-calving.Day 240January 11, 2027
- Move to calving areaClean, dry, observed pen.Day 270February 10, 2027
- Earliest calvingMonitor closely from here.Day 279February 19, 2027
- Expected calving dateTypical calving day.Day 283February 23, 2027
- Call your vetOverdue — check with your veterinarian.Day 287February 27, 2027
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is a cow pregnancy?
Average bovine gestation is 283 days (~9.3 months), with breed variation: Holstein 279, Angus 281, Hereford 285, Jersey 283, Brahman 292, Simmental 286. Beef breeds tend to be slightly longer than dairy.
How can you tell if a cow is pregnant?
Rectal palpation by vet from day 35. Ultrasound from day 28 (+ sex determination from day 55). Blood test for pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) from day 28. Milk PAG test from day 30 in dairy.
When do I dry off a dairy cow?
60 days before expected calving (around day 220 of gestation). The 60-day dry period allows mammary tissue regeneration and maximizes next-lactation yield.
What are signs of calving?
Udder fills 1–2 weeks before; pelvic ligaments relax 12–24 hours before; tail held away, restlessness, decreased appetite. Active labor begins with visible contractions; first calf usually delivered within 2 hours.
Should I vaccinate my cow before calving?
Yes — 30–60 days pre-calving: scours vaccine (E. coli/rotavirus/coronavirus), 8-way clostridial, IBR/BVD. Consult your vet for your region's specific protocol.
What is the calving interval for beef cows?
Optimal calving interval is 365 days. A cow should be rebred within 85 days of calving to maintain a yearly calving schedule.
Sources & References
- [1]Bovine Gestation Length by Breed — University of Minnesota Extension
- [2]Merck Veterinary Manual — Cattle Reproduction — Merck Veterinary Manual
- [3]
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