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=== Stage 1 ===
 
=== Stage 1 ===
    +
* Lasts ~6 hours
 
* Relaxing of pelvic ligaments.
 
* Relaxing of pelvic ligaments.
 
* Mammary secretions change from transparent,honey-like to opaque, cellular colostrum.
 
* Mammary secretions change from transparent,honey-like to opaque, cellular colostrum.
* Body temperature subnormal by ~
+
* Body temperature subnormal by ~0.6◦C.
 +
* Parturition will begin 12 hours after complete relaxation of the posterior borders of the sacrosciatic ligaments.
 +
* Heifers may show signs of abdominal pain for up to 24 hours before the cervix is fully dilated.
 +
* Occasional straining may occur.
 +
* Picks at feed, irregular rumination
 +
* 'Lowing'
 +
* Kicking of the abdomen
 +
* Restless, may stand with her back arched and tail raised.
 +
** May go down and rise again frequently
 +
* Pulse rate often increased to 80-90.
    
=== Stage 2 ===
 
=== Stage 2 ===
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