The cow must be relaxed during the procedure to avoid injury, as the rectum wall is a delicate structure. Gently work out any excess dung and if the rectum becomes distended with gas or the cow strains excessively, withdraw the arm and consider re-serving a few hours later. Keep the flask in a secure, well-ventilated area, replacing the stopper quickly to reduce liquid nitrogen loss. Cervical insemination will reduce conception rate but so will inserting the AI gun too far up one horn; this may cause bleeding and trauma. Send semen samples to your vet at intervals as a quality check. The cow should also be appropriately restrained. The chance of AI success is greatly increased when the cow is relaxed; it should stand on a level surface with plenty of grip.
Charlee. Age: 31.
The cow should also be appropriately restrained.
Faith. Age: 21.
8-step guide to artificially inseminating a dairy cow
Soiled insemination guns should be cleaned after use and treated with boiling water every few weeks. Disinfectant can damage sperm. Send semen samples to your vet at intervals as a quality check.
