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FurCalc

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.

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Gestation: 279287 days (avg 283).

Estimated calving date
February 23, 2027
Window: February 19, 2027February 27, 2027
0%
Day
0 / 283
Week
1
Trimester
1
Day 0T1Day 283
1st trimester
d194
2nd trimester
d95188
3rd trimester
d189283
283 days remaining until expected due

Upcoming milestones

  • Pregnancy confirmation
    Ultrasound or blood test (Biopryn) confirms pregnancy.
    Day 30
    June 15, 2026
  • Palpation window
    Vet can palpate for pregnancy confirmation.
    Day 60
    July 15, 2026
  • Dry off dairy cows
    Allow 60-day dry period before calving.
    Day 200
    December 2, 2026
  • Pre-calving vaccinations
    Scours, IBR, BVD vaccines 30–60 days pre-calving.
    Day 240
    January 11, 2027
  • Move to calving area
    Clean, dry, observed pen.
    Day 270
    February 10, 2027
  • Earliest calving
    Monitor closely from here.
    Day 279
    February 19, 2027
  • Expected calving date
    Typical calving day.
    Day 283
    February 23, 2027
  • Call your vet
    Overdue — check with your veterinarian.
    Day 287
    February 27, 2027
Dates are estimates. Individual pregnancies vary. Always confirm pregnancy and track milestones with a licensed veterinarian.

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. [1]
    Bovine Gestation Length by Breed University of Minnesota Extension
  2. [2]
  3. [3]