Raise happy, healthy cattle with confidence and practical know-how
Cattle farming offers rewarding opportunities for established farmers and newcomers alike, whether you want to expand an existing operation or start fresh with your first few head. Raising Beef Cattle For Dummies, 2nd Edition walks you through every stage of cattle ownership, from preparing your land and selecting the right animals to feeding, breeding, and building a profitable business.
This book covers everything you need to know about modern cattle raising, including selling cattle online, grooming techniques, and managing the financial side of your beef business. You'll find practical advice on nutrition, health care, and humane handling that balances your resources with sustainable production. Everyone from hobby farmers to 4-H members or just a person looking to turn cattle into a viable enterprise, you'll find the tips you need here.
Inside:
Get your property ready for cattle with proper facilities, fencing, and pasture management strategies
Select and purchase the right cattle for your goals, from breeding stock to market animals
Create daily routines that address feeding, health monitoring, and overall cattle wellness
Build a sustainable breeding program and understand the calving process from start to finish
Turn your cattle operation into a profitable business with smart pricing and marketing approaches
Whether you're adding your first calf to the farm or expanding a growing herd, Raising Beef Cattle For Dummies, 2nd Edition gives you practical guidance. It's perfect for hobby farmers, part-time ranchers, and 4-H members ready to take the next step. Time to get mooo-ving!
Introduction 1
Part 1: Getting to Know Beef Cattle 5
CHAPTER 1: Raising Beef Cattle: Rewarding Work 7
CHAPTER 2: Bovine Basics: Cattle Terminology and Anatomy 23
CHAPTER 3: From Angus to Zebu: Beef Cattle Breeds and Traits 33
Part 2: Preparing to Bring Home the Beef 51
CHAPTER 4: Preparing Your Facilities 53
CHAPTER 5: Planning Your Feeding Program 77
CHAPTER 6: Exploring Pasture, Manure, and Water Management 107
CHAPTER 7: Choosing and Buying Cattle 127
Part 3: Managing Cattle, Health, and Breeding 145
CHAPTER 8: Minimizing Stress in Cattle Handling 147
CHAPTER 9: Keeping Your Cattle Healthy 165
CHAPTER 10: Addressing Common Cattle Ailments 193
CHAPTER 11: Breeding Cows and Caring for Pregnant Females 215
CHAPTER 12: Looking After Calves Young and Old 245
Part 4: Realizing Your Cattle Business Potential 265
CHAPTER 13: Turning Your Extra Pastures into a Money-Making Business 267
CHAPTER 14: Showing and Selling Cattle 281
CHAPTER 15: Managing Your Beef Business 301
Part 5: The Part of Tens 321
CHAPTER 16: Ten Common Mistakes to Avoid When Raising Cattle 323
CHAPTER 17: Ten (or So) Bizarre Bovine Behaviors and What They Mean 331
Index 337