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Getting a cow back on her feet and returned to the herd as quickly as possible is rewarding for you and the best outcome for the animal.

A down cow is one that is sitting or lying on the ground and unable to get up. Cows can become recumbent for many reasons, and at any stage of their lactation cycle, but it most commonly occurs around calving time. Rapid treatment for the correct diagnosis, followed by nursing at a high standard, maximises a down cow’s chance of recovery, and reduces stress for everyone during a busy calving season.

Take a look at the Rolling a Down Cow infographic that DairyNZ have created.