Case report: Natural birth of quadruplet calves from an ongole grade cow in Central Java

Abstract

This case report documents a rare instance of natural quadruplet birth in a five years old Ongole-grade cow owned by a smallholder farmer in Sidomulyo Village, Rembang, Central Java. On May 17, 2025, the cow delivered four calves one male and three females without the need for surgical intervention. The delivery was facilitated by a local veterinarian and a livestock officer. Although all calves were born alive, their birth weights were low, attributed to intrauterine crowding. Postpartum care for the cow included nutritional support and veterinary monitoring. Despite these interventions, all calves and the dam succumbed within a week. This case underscores the significant risks associated with multiple births in cattle under smallholder conditions and highlights the urgent need for enhanced management practices, veterinary support, and policy attention to avert similar outcomes in the future.