How to Care for Cows

If you take good care of your cows, they will produce dairy products, meat and calves for years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Cattle Feed
• Cattle Wormer
• Feed Buckets
• Livestock Salt And Minerals
• Milking Stools
• Rubber Boots
• Bales Of Straws
• Fencing
• Hay Feeders
• Pitchforks
• Shovels
• Steel Rake
• Water Source
• Buckets

1. Provide shelter. Cows need shade in summer and a windbreak in winter. The type of shelter depends on the type of winter your area has and the breed of cow.
2. Keep cows wormed. Change brands of wormer every other time to prevent them from becoming immune.
3. Provide water at all times - either a pond, spring, creek or watering tank.
4. Feed cows. Milking cows will need grain and hay for good production. Beef cows can manage on pasture with supplemental feedings of hay and grain in winter.
5. Keep salt and minerals out for cattle at all times. Check with your local vet or agricultural agent about types of minerals needed for your area and time of year.
6. Maintain a good fence or pen around cows.
7. Clean barn stalls and lay fresh straw if you keep your cows in a barn.
8. Milk dairy cows twice a day.
9. Check cows for lice and parasites and medicate as needed. Check with vet for any questions you have.

Tips & Warnings

• Get to know your county agriculture agents - they can help answer most of your questions or get you in touch with someone who can.
• Remember that even if they are gentle, cows are still animals. Teach your children the correct way to handle cattle and where not to play.