How to Buy Miniature Cattle

Miniature cattle, or minis, are great for smaller farms and those who consider the costs of raising traditional cattle to be too expensive. Miniature cattle are used for meat and milk just like full-size cattle and it takes considerably less land to raise them. Best of all, miniature cattle have a smaller amount of manure to clean up. Here's how to choose the miniature cattle breed that's right for you.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Learn about the miniature breeds of cattle available in your area. To find what breeds will do well on your farm, visit your local agricultural exchange. Some breeds such as the Highland miniature cattle for example do well in cooler climates because of its coat.

2. Be sure you have adequate grazing land. Even though these are miniature cattle, in order for them to be healthy, you'll still need adequate grazing area for their size. Assume the grazing area of miniature cattle to be about three times the grazing area required by sheep.

3. Consider buying a rare breed such as the Highland. Because of their resistance to disease and easy temperament, they're a good breed to start with while learning the ropes of raising miniature cattle.

4. Go organic with your miniature cattle. Getting your farm registered as organic with the FDA takes time and money, but it will pay in dividends of profit margin when your cattle go to market. You'll also know that you will be putting out a great product and your minis were raised in the healthiest way possible.

5. Start a breeding program when you buy miniature cattle. Some suppliers are willing to help you get started with your own breeding program since many minis are in high demand and are often sold out with buyers not able to obtain the stock of miniature cattle they want.