Reviving a Newborn Calf That Isn’t Breathing: A Farmer’s Guide

The birth of a calf is an exciting moment for any dairy or beef farmer, but sometimes newborns struggle to take their first breath. If a calf is born weak or unresponsive, immediate intervention can mean the difference between life and death. This article explores practical steps to help a newborn calf start breathing.

Table of Contents

Why Do Some Calves Struggle to Breathe at Birth?

Several factors can cause a newborn calf to have difficulty breathing:

Difficult Birth (Dystocia) – Prolonged labor can cause oxygen deprivation.
Fluid Blockage – Mucus in the airways can prevent proper breathing.
Weakness or Stress – Some calves are born weak due to poor fetal development or a stressful birth.

Steps to Stimulate Breathing in a Newborn Calf

1. Clear the Airways

Gently remove mucus and fluids from the calf’s nose and mouth using a clean cloth or suction bulb.
Elevating the calf’s hind legs for a few seconds can help drain excess fluids.

2. Position the Calf Correctly

Lay the calf on its chest with its legs tucked underneath. This allows the lungs to expand properly.

3. Stimulate Breathing

If the calf is still not breathing:

Rub the chest vigorously – This stimulates circulation and encourages the calf to breathe.
Hang the calf upside down briefly – As seen in the illustration, this can help clear fluid from the lungs. However, this should only be done for a short time, as it may also restrict lung expansion.
Use a breathing stimulant – If available, medications like Dopram-V can help encourage respiration.

4. Perform Artificial Respiration (if needed)

If the calf remains unresponsive:

Close the calf’s mouth and gently blow into one nostril while blocking the other.
Repeat at 30-second intervals until the calf starts breathing.

5. Keep the Calf Warm and Monitor Recovery

Dry the calf thoroughly and place it in a warm, dry area.
Ensure the calf receives colostrum within the first few hours to boost immunity and energy levels.

When to Call a Veterinarian

If the calf remains weak or struggles to breathe after initial efforts, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Conclusion

Every second counts when reviving a newborn calf. Clearing the airways, stimulating breathing, and providing warmth are critical steps to saving a struggling calf. By understanding these techniques, farmers can improve calf survival rates and ensure a strong start to life.