In some rural areas of China, grazing cattle still play a vital role in agricultural production. Effective feeding practices, proper management, and focused attention during peak farming seasons are essential for maintaining the health of the animals and ensuring smooth farm operations. Proper care not only improves the productivity of the cattle but also enhances overall farm efficiency.
**1. Feeding Practices**
During busy farming periods, cattle are typically fed three times a day—early, midday, and evening—with an additional feed at night. Concentrates are usually given in the morning and at noon, while more grass and hay are provided in the evening. It’s important to feed the cattle about two hours before work so they have enough time to eat and ruminate. After feeding, they should rest for about 30 minutes. The feeding process should start with coarsely crushed materials, followed by a small amount of fine feed mixed in with water. Sprinkling a little saltwater on leftover grass can encourage the cows to eat all of it. Cattle should be given water 3–5 times daily, totaling 30–40 kg, and 20–30 grams of salt per day. After work, avoid immediate drinking; instead, let them rest for 30 minutes first, then allow them to drink and rest again for digestion.
**2. Management Tips**
The barn should be spacious, clean, well-ventilated, and dry. Regular cleaning is crucial to ensure the cows can rest comfortably. Dust and manure should be removed from the cow’s body to maintain hygiene, improve circulation, and prevent skin diseases. After each work session, hooves should be cleaned and shaped, with annual trimming done 2–3 times. Due to their limited sweat glands, cattle are prone to heat stress. After work, they should be moved to shaded areas or ponds to cool down. In summer, herbs like vitex can be burned in the barn to repel flies and mosquitoes.
**3. Work Execution**
When working, the harness and tools should fit the cow properly, with appropriate rope lengths and plows that match the animal’s size. The principle of “work, rest, and use†should be followed to ensure humane treatment and avoid unnecessary whipping. A typical work session lasts 2 hours, followed by a 30-minute break. Daily work should not exceed 8 hours. If a cow shows signs such as neck extension, back arching, tail swishing, inconsistent speed, or frequent urination, it should be given rest. If the cow refuses to eat after work but has no other symptoms, extend the rest period accordingly.
**4. Daily Health Checks**
To detect and treat illnesses early, daily health checks are essential. Focus on four key areas:
(1) **Eating Behavior**: Normal rumination and a moist nose indicate good health. Lack of rumination, dry nose, and fever may signal illness, requiring veterinary attention.
(2) **Appearance**: Sluggishness, lack of tail movement, difficulty standing, or reluctance to move after lying down may suggest overwork or early disease. If no improvement after rest, consult a vet.
(3) **Feces and Urine**: Healthy feces are firm and glossy. Dry or hard stools may mean dehydration, while soft stools suggest indigestion. Normal urine is clear and abundant. Cloudy or reduced urine may indicate illness.
(4) **Gait**: Difficulty walking or lameness could point to limb issues. Unstable gait and short breaths may result from overwork. If no improvement after rest, seek veterinary help.
Proper management of grazing cattle requires careful attention to their needs, ensuring their health and well-being while maximizing their contribution to agriculture. By following these practices, farmers can avoid overuse, reduce losses, and maintain efficient farm operations.