Raising Cows For Beef - 4 Key Preparatory Steps Before You Invest In Raising Beef Cattle

     Raising cows for beef is fairly simple. As long as the cows are able to grow appropriate under good conditions, they will soon gain enough weight for consumption. From the initial purchase and choosing them, to taking care of them well and making sure they are healthy. However, to get high-quality meats from them or to maintain their health is not as easy as 1-2-3. There are quite a few factors that should be considered. Luckily, it is not hard to understand, and all the important details are quite easy to keep in mind. Here are the four steps that should prepare you for raising cattle:

Raising Cows for Beef Tip #1: The Bovine's Purpose

When it comes to raising cattle, their milk and meat are the profits that come to mind instantly. At first, it may seem simple because what comes to mind is to purchase a pair of male and female cows for further breeding. However, there is a big difference between a bovine for milk and a bovine for meat. To compare, a cow for milk is raised to produce good amounts of milk, but they have difficulties when it comes to gaining weight; whereas, a bovine for meat can gain weight easier, but they are typically males only, which means that any further breeding may prove to be difficult.

Raising Cows for Beef Tip #2: The Bovine's Gender

The gender is another factor to consider, because males grow faster than females. That is why male bovines are usually used for meat production instead of females. Take note, however, that you will not be able to go into the business of milk production if meat production is your focus; mainly because only females produce milk (in case you are wondering).

Raising Cows for Beef Tip #3: The Bovine's Variety

A cow with horns might prove to be more difficult to take care of, because they jeopardize the caretaker's safety. Fortunately, there is a breed of cows that do not have horns, which are known as "polled". This variety of cows is ideal for raising cattle, because you will be saved the trouble of having their horns cut by a professional if you own cows with horns.

Raising Cows for Beef Tip #4: The Proper Shelter

The living environment of the cattle is of utmost importance. This will determine the rate of their weight gain, as well as their health. Most bovines that live under harsh conditions will be prone to ailments that can result to a good number of death losses. They will also have a more difficult time gaining weight if the temperature of the area is uncomfortable. Their living conditions should be under a dry place with appropriate ventilation, and should always be fed with enough hay or milk daily.

As long as you are prepared and well-learned of all the details, you will be able to start raising cows for beef soon enough. Of course, it goes without saying, you will need a big enough and well-functioning freezer to take care of all the meat you will be able to get. And don't forget to improve the bovines' living conditions gradually, because that will determine the quality of their production.