Starting To Raise Cattle - 4 Important Considerations When Buying Cattle Breed

As with any purchase it is important that you get value for your money. If you are uncertain about how to purchase a beef animal then it would be best to deal with someone who is ethical and understands this side of the business. This could include a family member, friend, neighbor, local farmer or County Agent. The idea is to not go into a purchase with little or no information or background. Here are 4 important considerations when buying cattle breed for your cattle farming venture:

1) Breed - In most situations frame and conformation are more important than breed in relation to cattle performance. However, there are some things to consider. Holsteins will work well in a feeder or finishing enterprise. They require different management and sell in a different market category. Animals with a high percentage of Brahman genetics do poorly in cold winter conditions. The disposition of the cattle can be an important factor which can be a breed characteristic. Avoid cattle that are high-strung or aggressive.

2) Condition - If you are purchasing cattle to put on pasture avoid cattle with excess fat as they gain poorly for the first month. Cattle should be healthy but lean and avoid cattle that may not have performed well elsewhere. You may be able to purchase them for less money but they probably won't achieve an acceptable performance.

3) Frame Size - Cattle with a small frame will finish at a light weight while cattle with a large frame will finish at a heavy weight. Cattle with different frame sizes require different feeding programs. Since you will want to manage your cattle as a group, purchase cattle that are uniform in frame size.

4) Health - Does the animal look healthy? Are there any symptoms of cattle diseases? Is it alert and bright eyed? Is its breathing normal and does it move about vigorously? Does it have a dull hair coat and look emaciated? What has it been vaccinated for and when?

You should also consider the location of your farm. Does your farm have good pasture where your cattle can graze and eat regularly? Is the location suitable for cattle farm? You should also consider the neighbor in the location of your farm so that you will not have any problems in the future. Your farm should also be large enough so that your cattle can graze around. Your cattle need to move and not just stay in one area. Your farm should have shelter for your beef cattle. As a starter, you don't need a big barn for your cattle. A good windbreaker will be enough to protect your calves since they are strong enough to stand different weather conditions.

Starting to raise cattle can improve quality of life and provide great satisfaction and responsibility for families. Explore your options and then decide. If you would like more tips on cattle handling and cattle behavior, please visit: www.howtoraisecattle.com