How to Breed Jersey Cows

Instructions

Things You'll Need

    Jersey cows
    Bull
    Semen straws
    Syringes
    Hormones
    Bowl
    Hot water

Breeding with a Live Bull
 

1. Consult your veterinarian for advice if this is your first time using artificial insemination. Ask about injecting hormones to force ovulation.

2. Purchase semen straws, syringes and any necessary hormones.

3. Inject your cows with hormones, as recommended by your veterinarian, to force ovulation. If you choose not to use hormones, watch your cows carefully every day for signs of the start of the heat cycle. Cows come into heat approximately every 18 to 24 days.

4. Tie the cow you wish to inseminate in a calm location. Thoroughly clean the cow's vulva.

5. Shake the semen straw, then plunge it into a hot water bath for approximately 45 seconds.

6. Cut the end of the semen straw and place it in a syringe.

7. Insert the syringe into the vulva at a 30-degree angle, taking care to avoid the urethral opening. Pass the end of the syringe through the cervix, using your index finger to confirm the position of the tip. Slowly deposit approximately half of the semen.

8. Reposition the syringe and deposit the remaining semen. Gently remove the syringe.

Artificial Insemination

1. Allow your bull to roam the pasture with the cows nine months before you would like them to calve. For example, for April calves, you would turn out your bull with the cows in July. If you want year-round breeding for dairy purposes, allow the bull to remain with the cows all year.
       

2. Provide extra feed and supplements to your bull when he is breeding to prevent weight loss.
   

3. Provide extra feed and supplements to pregnant and nursing cows.