Be ready to help heifers and cows during calving season Veterinarian reviews steps for cattle producers before and after calving3 April 2024 3 April 2024 2 minute read 2 minute read By: By: Kansas State Research and Extension North AmericaKansas State University veterinarian Gregg Hanzlicek said being prepared ahead of calving season is the best way for producers to assure they will bring home the newborn calves successfully. A key to having a successful calving and production season is for cows and heifers to be in the appropriate body condition, which is a score of 5-7, according to Hanzlicek. Also, Hanzlicek recommends establishing a clean calving area to help reduce the risk of scours. "Most operations are going to have to help at least one animal during the calving season,” Hanzlicek said. “Colostrum-based powders are the best way to go, and I would recommend that every producer have one or two bags of powder replacer on-hand during the calving season,” Hanzlicek said.