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Agriculture for Secondary Schools

as it may hurt the animal. The procedure must be performed by trained livestock
personnel using clean equipment. Breeding bulls must be given enough water
and fed with high-quality grass and
mineral supplements. When grazing,
bulls should be closely supervised.
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Farmers should avoid using the same
bull for more than two years in small Nose ring
herds. This prevents inbreeding and
keeps the herd strong.

Figure 9.6: Bull with a nose ring

Management of pregnant cows and heifers
Pregnant cows and heifers must be managed with care to ensure safe calving and
healthy calves. From six months of pregnancy, they should not be moved long
distances. They need quiet surroundings, proper shelter, enough feed and water.
Stress must be avoided, as it can lead to poor growth of the calf or problems
during calving.

Two months before calving, pregnant animals should begin a feeding practice
called steaming up. This involves giving more concentrates with mineral mixes
and legume fodder together with clean water and time for moderate exercise.
Steaming up helps the calf grow well and prepares the udder for milk production.
It also builds the strength of the cow or heifer before delivery.
Cows that are still producing milk should stop being milked around 45 - 60 days
before calving. This practice is called drying off. It gives the udder time to rest
and produce colostrum, which is the first milk needed by the newborn calf. Dry
cows must be fed properly and checked regularly for any signs or symptoms of
udder infection.

About two weeks before calving, the animal should be moved to a clean, quiet
calving pen. The pen must have soft bedding, good drainage, and enough space.
This prevents injuries and infections. First-time heifers need special attention,
as calving may be more difficult for them. Close observation is important, and
if signs of calving continue for too long, assistance should be requested from a
veterinarian or authorised livestock personnel.

152 Student’s Book Form Three

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