Download ArticleDownload ArticleThis article was co-authored by Karin Lindquist. Karin Lindquist earned a BSc in Agriculture as an Animal Science major from the University of Alberta, Canada. She has over 20 years of experience working with cattle and crops. She's worked for a mixed-practice veterinarian, as a sales representative in a farm supply store, and as a research assistant doing rangeland, soil, and crop research. She currently works as a forage and beef agriculture extension specialist, advising farmers on a variety of issues relating to their cattle and the forages they grow and harvest.
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Raising cattle can be really rewarding if you want to provide food for your family, but it’s important to know how to care of them before you purchase your first herd. If you want to get started with your own cows and bulls, there are a few things you have to know. Before the animals arrive on your land, create a series of paddocks and shelters suitable for your herd size. Then, start caring for the cattle directly by providing for their food, water, and health needs. For additional guidance and help, it’s always a good idea to work with an experienced livestock veterinarian.
Steps
The Takeaway: Cattle Care Basics
Keep water available at all times and supplement your cows' diet with nourishing feed. Provide access to high ground or a shelter to keep them safe in bad weather. Work with a livestock vet to monitor your herd’s health and to assist with any pregnant heifers.
Community Q&A
- QuestionIs there a specific kind of feed and medication for pregnant cows?
KarinTop AnswererNo and no. Definitely no medication unless the cow is actually sick, and the same kind of feed that she'd get if she were not pregnant or suckling a calf. Be mindful, though, that a cow that is in mid-pregnancy and not suckling a calf (or "dry") doesn't need as much protein and energy as if she were in late pregnancy, or lactating. When a dry pregnant cow is in her second trimester and needing to gain or lose some weight, that's typically the best time to do it. Add straw to her ration if she needs to lose some or maintain weight. To get her gaining, feed with a good source of energy, like grain or beet pulp or something similar, to be fed along with her usual diet of grass and/or hay. - QuestionWhat is the best type of food to feed a fancy cow?
Community AnswerSame type of food you'd feed any other cow: pasture forage, hay, silage, grain, etc. You may want to give something fancy to your cow, but your cow, quite honestly, wouldn't care. All she cares about is having good food and a comfortable place to stay and live. - QuestionHow soon should I remove a calf from the mother in order for the heifer to get pregnant?KarinTop AnswererI'm assuming you're referring to the calf as the heifer. The heifer won't be bred until she's at least 15 months old, though some folks like to give the heifer more time to grow before breeding her, such as not until she's almost 2 years old. A calf can stay on her mama for 6 months or up to 10 months old. When to wean depends on the cow, really, not so much the calf. A calf's most critical period for needing milk is up to 3 months old. A cow that is losing weight from producing milk for a growing calf older than 3 months is one that may need weaning. If that's not the case, then wean at any time you feel.
Tips
- Find a mentor if you are new to cattle raising. Reach out to your local livestock veterinarians, dairymen, cattle breeders, or agricultural industry professionals.[12]Thanks
- If you are new to cattle-raising, try starting small with just 1-2 animals.Thanks
Warnings
- Monitor your fencing on a regular basis to ensure that there are no sharp points or breaks. Pointed areas can harm your animals and damaged fencing can contribute to escapes.Thanks
- Owning a cow or steer is a long commitment, as some animals live upwards of 18 years. Make sure to carefully consider this before building your herd.[13]Thanks
References
- ↑ http://www.fromscratchmag.com/raise-cattle-small-acreage/
- ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/feeding-beef-cattle
- ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/courses/livestock-grazing/pasture-facilities/designing-pasture-systems/paddock-size
- ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/courses/livestock-grazing/pasture-facilities/designing-pasture-systems/paddock-design-basics
- ↑ https://extension.psu.edu/courses/livestock-grazing/pasture-facilities/designing-pasture-systems/paddock-design-basics
- ↑ http://www.livingthecountrylife.com/animals/livestock/cattle-care/
- ↑ http://www.fromscratchmag.com/raise-cattle-small-acreage/
- ↑ http://www.fromscratchmag.com/raise-cattle-small-acreage/
- ↑ https://www.producer.com/livestock/how-much-salt-do-cows-need-when-on-pasture/
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