Summary

A complete guide to raising healthy, happy cattle The United States beef and dairy market is a booming multi-billion dollar industry that will only grow larger as the population continues to increase. Raising Cattle For Dummies provides you with a comprehensive guide to the correct methods of caring for cattle and presents helpful advice and instruction to maintain a healthy herd. You'll get expert tips from animal science experts and experienced farmers that show you how to start your own operation or increase your farm's output. Dietary specifications dependent on breed The prevention and treatment of common diseases Guidance on humane management handling, and transportation Successful avenues for marketing and selling cattle and by-products Whether you're an aspiring stockmen or an established dairy farmer, you'll get all the information you need on raising, handling, breeding, and keeping healthy cattle.

Author Biography

Nikki and Scott Royer, graduates of the Purdue University School of Agriculture, raise cattle on their diversified family farm in Indiana. In addition to raising the calves from their own cow herd, the Royers also purchase and finish feeder cattle from other producers.

Introduction 1

Part I: Getting to Know Beef Cattle 7

Chapter 1: The Rewards and Responsibilities of Raising Beef Cattle 9

Chapter 2: Bovine Basics: Understanding Cattle Terminology and Anatomy 23

Chapter 3: From Angus to Zebu: Looking at Beef Cattle Breeds and Traits 35

Part II: Preparing to Bring Home the Beef 53

Chapter 4: Home on the Range: Preparing Your Facilities 55

Chapter 5: Chow Time: Planning Your Feeding Program 79

Chapter 6: Exploring Pasture, Manure, and Water Management 107

Chapter 7: Choosing and Buying Cattle 127

Part III: Cattle Handling, Health, and Breeding 145

Chapter 8: Understanding and Properly Handling Cattle 147

Chapter 9: Keeping Your Cattle Healthy 165

Chapter 10: Addressing Common Cattle Ailments 191

Chapter 11: Breeding Cows and Caring for Pregnant Females 213

Chapter 12: Looking After Calves Young and Old 241

Part IV: Realizing Your Cattle Business Potential 261

Chapter 13: Turning Your Extra Pastures into a Money-Making Business 263

Chapter 14: Showing and Selling Cattle 275

Chapter 15: Managing Your Beef Business 293

Part V: The Part of Tens 311

Chapter 16: Ten Common Mistakes to Avoid When Raising Cattle 313

Chapter 17: Ten (or so) Bizarre Bovine Behaviors . . . and What They Mean 321

Index 327

Supplemental Materials

What is included with this book?

The New copy of this book will include any supplemental materials advertised. Please check the title of the book to determine if it should include any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.

The Used, Rental and eBook copies of this book are not guaranteed to include any supplemental materials. Typically, only the book itself is included. This is true even if the title states it includes any access cards, study guides, lab manuals, CDs, etc.