Friday, 29 Mar 2024

How To Take Care of Cattle

Cattle are domestic livestock raised for milk and beef. They are large animals, typically mild in temperament and limited in their self-defense capabilities, though their sheer mass can afford them some protection. Anyone looking to raise and keep cattle must understand their basic needs. Here is an overview of what cattle need to be healthy and productive.

Health Care

Cattle are susceptible to several different health complaints, including bacterial infections, parasites, and cancer. They can also experience problems of the respiratory or digestive systems. Some health problems affecting cattle may be prevented by vaccinations. Probiotics such as Bovibox Natural CP may help to prevent some conditions by boosting the immune system. Cattle should have a visit from the veterinarian every six months, specifically to have their hooves trimmed and inspected.

Pasture and Shelter

Cattle spend a lot of their time out to pasture. It is important that each individual animal have sufficient space in which to move around and keep itself fed. Therefore, for every animal on your property, you should be able to provide at least five or 10 acres. To prevent cattle from wandering away from your property, the pasture should be enclosed with sturdy fencing. Electric fencing is effective but not required. Barbed wire, wood, and woven wire are other popular materials for cattle fencing.

Cattle also need a shelter in which to retreat during inclement weather. This needs to protect against wind and water, but it need not be completely enclosed. If enclosed, it does need to be well ventilated, and each animal should have at least 35 to 40 square feet.

Nutrition

Cattle should typically be fed on hay rather than grain unless they have trouble keeping on weight. Like most domestic animals, they need access to clean, fresh water at all times. Cattle also need access to supplemental minerals in the form of salt licks.

Individual cattle have a normal life span of about 20 years. If not well taken care of, this may be less.