Preparation and care during this period will minimize sickness and death of the heifer, cow, and calf. Facilities should be designed to be safe, effective, and easily cleaned. The main objectives of a calving facility are to minimize disease and stress to both the cow and calf. Convenience and employee working conditions are secondary considerations for these facilities. Properly managed sod pastures can be ideal calving areas during the summer, but they are often muddy during the winter.
Additional time is required for frequent observation of cows calving on pastures.
Maternity and calving pens are an alternative to pasture calving. In large herds where calving is concentrated in a small area, sanitation is extremely important. Sanitary conditions will minimize disease and stress to both the cow and calf. Pens should be designed for ease of cleaning. Well-grooved concrete floors are preferable so the pen area can be thoroughly washed while allowing for good traction and secure footing.