We prefer to sell our calves in pairs unless you already have miniature cattle. Cattle are herd animals and need at least one other bovine in their herd - sheep, goats, alpaca and ponies unfortunately don't count.
If you are looking to buy mini cows as pets it's best to choose two steers. Mini steers are genuinely the friendliest and the easiest to train. Heifers will cycle every three weeks or so and bulls are definitely not suitable as pets.
We are often asked if minis can be put with regular cattle and this is usually only advisable with steers. A mini heifer will cycle and be ridden by paddock mates (whether they are steers or other heifers) which can cause injuries.
One hectare of good grazing is usually enough for two miniature cattle, but you will still need a plan for supplementary feeding in the dry and the wet (silage is best). Mini Highlands and Galloways eat about the same as a standard Highland or Galloway but less than a dairy cow or dairy/beef cross.
All cattle need access to fresh, clean water and ideally shade from the sun and shelter from the wind and rain. You will also need adequate fencing to keep your mini cattle in and other cattle out.
We like our animals to go to homes with cattle yards and a race for drenching and animal health treatment. If you are intending to breed you will need a cattle crush and head bale.
If you are planning to breed your mini cattle it's important to remember that a lactating cow will need more feed than a non lactating cow, so you will need to factor this in to your breeding plans and feed budgeting.
You can read more about breeding mini cattle here or join our Facebook Group to ask any questions and learn from other breeders.
