How to tell if a cow is pregnant
A blood test can tell from about 28 days after breeding and an ultrasound from about 30 days; feeling for the calf by rectal palpation usually needs 35 to 50 days of pregnancy.
The three ways
•
Blood test — from about 28 days after breeding. It needs no special equipment and agrees very well with ultrasound.
•
Ultrasound — from about 30 days after breeding or insemination.
•
Rectal palpation — usually from 35 to 50 days of pregnancy. The experience of the person palpating makes a big difference.
Before a test
•
Watch for her next heat about 21 days after breeding (a cow’s cycle runs 17 to 24 days). If she comes back into heat, she did not settle.
•
Check the herd within 60 days of the end of breeding, so open cows are found early.
Once she is confirmed
•
Cows carry about 283 days; most calve between day 279 and day 287.
Her due date
Questions
How early can you tell if a cow is pregnant?
About 28 days after breeding with a blood test, and about 30 with an ultrasound.
When can a vet feel a calf?
By rectal palpation, usually from 35 to 50 days of pregnancy.
When should I pregnancy-check the herd?
Within 60 days of the end of breeding, so decisions about open cows can be made early.
How long is a cow pregnant?
About 283 days; most calve between day 279 and day 287.
Sources
Last checked September 30, 2026. A common guide — your vet’s plan wins.
More answers
Remembers every animal’s due date and reminds you before each job — the pregnancy check, the pen, the watch. Coming to the App Store this winter.