How to Have a Pet Cow

Co-authored by wikiHow Staff

Updated: September 30, 2019 | References

When people think of cows, they probably think about milk, cheese, or steak. But cows are becoming popular pets as well. They are relatively tame and mild-mannered, and can live over 20 years if cared for properly. If you're considering getting a cow as a pet, first do your research and make sure your property is prepared for a cow. Then get your cow on a feeding schedule, provide all the necessary support and cleaning, and check the cow regularly for signs of disease. With proper care, your cow could be with you for well over a decade.

Method One of Four:
Choosing the Right Cow

  1. 1
    Research different types of cows. Just like there are different dog breeds, there are many different cow breeds as well. Female cattle are divided between cows (meaning they've had at least one calf) and heifers (meaning they have had no calves). Male cattle are divided between steers (neutered males) and bulls (unneutered males used for breeding). Any of the other choices are fine. Do your research on the different types of cows and consider which would be best for your home and property.[1]
  2. 2
    Get a cow that recently had a calf if you want a pet that produces milk. Many people think of milk when they think of a cow. If this is your goal, you need a cow that has recently had a calf. Cows produce milk for about 10 months after having a calf, and you can milk your cow every day during this period.[2]
    • If you want your cow to produce more milk after this period, it needs to have another calf. You'll have to mate your cow or bring in a professional to artificially inseminate it.
    • If you buy a heifer that has never had a calf, you won't be able to milk her. If you decide you want milk later on, you can choose to mate or impregnate her to make her lactate.
  3. 3
    Choose a steer if you want to ride or use the animal for work. Steers are larger and more powerful than female cattle, and are usually used for heavier work. If you plan on either riding your animal or using it for work around your property, you should opt for a steer instead of a cow.[3]
    • A common job for steers on a farm is pulling carts filled with tools or equipment. If you do a lot of work on your property, a steer may fit your needs better than a cow.
  4. 4
    Consider a smaller cow type if you don't have a large property. Different types of cows require different amounts of grazing space. If you only have an acre or so of property, you can still have a pet cow. Just research varieties that don't need as much space.[4]
    • Breeds like Jerseys, Dexters, and Holsteins don't need a lot of grazing space and are better for smaller properties. Opt for one of these so your cow isn't confined by small space.
    • There are also miniature cow varieties that need even less space.
  5. 5
    Prepare for extra work if you get a calf. While you may want to get a calf (baby cow) so you can raise a cow from birth, keep in mind that calves require extra care and attention. Be ready for the commitment if you get one of these. If you don't want a high-maintenance pet, opt for a grown cow instead.[5]
    • Medical care for a calf is much more involved since they are susceptible to more diseases. They'll need medical care every few months and multiple vaccinations to stay healthy.
    • Calves also need a more specialized diet of proteins and fats. Feeding a calf will be more complicated and expensive than a grown cow.
  6. 6
    Get multiple cows for companionship. Cows are herd animals and are usually happier in pairs. If you can afford it, consider getting two cows instead of one. Just keep in mind that this will be more expensive for feeding and maintenance.[6]

Method Two of Four:
Getting Your Property Ready

  1. 1
    Have at least 1 acre of land for your cow to roam on. Cows shouldn't be confined. They like to roam around. You should have at least 1 acre of property for your cow to wander on and stay active.[7]
    • Note that 1 acre of grassland won't provide enough food for your cow. If you only have 1 acre, supplement your cow's food with grass hay and feed.
  2. 2
    Secure the cow's grazing area with a fence at least 54 in (1.4 m) high. Don't allow your cow to graze and roam on land that isn't fenced in. Fence in all the area that your cow will be roaming on. This area should total at least 1 acre so your cow has enough space to wander and graze. Inspect this fence regularly for problems and fix any damage right away.[8]
    • Although they may not look nimble, cows can in fact jump if they’re scared or startled. That's why any fence should be at least 54 inches (1.4 m) high.
    • Secure all fencing to a post every 8–10 feet (2.4–3.0 m).
    • A wooden, wire, or metal fence should be enough for a pet cow, especially if you only have one.
    • Check if there is a contractor in your area who specializes or has experience building cattle fences. This way, you can ensure that your fence is appropriate for housing a cow.
  3. 3
    Construct a waterproof structure for your cow. Cows don’t need elaborate housing, but they do need a place to stay warm and dry. Any housing should provide 35–40 sq ft (3.3–3.7 m2) for your cow to stay comfortable. Use clean, dry straw for the cow’s bedding. Replace this bedding every day. Leave the structure open so the cow can enter it during the day if it gets cold.[9]
    • If you already have a barn or large shed, this would work as long as it keeps out water and wind. Otherwise, build a new structure that fits the cow’s needs.
    • If the structure has a cement floor, cover it with dirt and provide several layers of straw. Otherwise your cow will be too cold.
    • Before putting down fresh straw, sprinkle some lime on any wet areas to absorb moisture and bacteria.

Method Three of Four:
Feeding Your Cow

  1. 1
    Provide at least 20 US gal (76 L) of water per day. Cows drink a lot of water and need to stay hydrated. Give your cow at least 20 US gal (76 L) per day, though adult cows can sometimes drink up to 20 US gal (76 L) daily. A large trough that holds several gallons of water will ensure your cow always has access to water.[10]
    • Pay particular attention during hot weather, because cows drink more when they’re warm. Replenish your cow’s water container whenever it’s empty.
    • Make sure the water is clean. Cows may refuse to drink soiled water even if they’re thirsty, which can lead to dehydration.[11]
  2. 2
    Let your cow graze on at least 2 acres of grassland for enough food. If you plan on feeding your cow with the grass on your property, you need sufficient grassland. The official recommendation is that a normal cow needs 2 acres of land to graze on. Any less, and your cow may not have enough food.[12]
    • If alfalfa grows on your property, keep your cow away from it. Its high protein content is only appropriate for young, growing calves. If an adult cow eats alfalfa it could get sick.
  3. 3
    Give your cow 2–4 lb (0.91–1.81 kg) of grass per 100 lb (45 kg) of bodyweight. If your property is too small for grazing, you have to supplement your cow's diet with clean grass hay. Give your cow 2–4 lb (0.91–1.81 kg) of grass per 100 lb (45 kg) of its bodyweight every day.[13]
    • For example, if your cow weighs 500 lb (230 kg), it needs 10–20 pounds (4.5–9.1 kg) of grass daily.
    • If your cow is eating outside, cover the hay with something that will keep it dry. Wet hay can get moldy and make your cow sick.
  4. 4
    Set up a salt lick for your cow. Salt blocks provide extra minerals to supplement your cow’s diet. This should always be available for your cow to lick whenever it wants to. Replace the block right away when it runs out.[14]
    • If the soil on your property is mineral-deficient, buy a salt block enriched with minerals. This will give your cow essential nutrients that may not be present in your grass.
    • Salt blocks should be available from the same stores that you buy your other cow supplies from.
  5. 5
    Give grain feed to sick or older cows. Healthy adult cows usually don’t need anything besides grass for their diet. Sick or older cows, however, might need extra nutrients. Grain feed provides additional energy and fat for cows that have trouble keeping weight on. Incorporate grain feed into your cow’s diet along with its regular grass feed.[15]
    • Speak with your vet before providing grain to your cow. Healthy cattle usually don’t need it, and it could cause weight gain or digestive problems. Work with your vet on adding the correct amount of feed into your cow’s diet. The portion sizes will vary from cow to cow.
    • Common recommendations for grain feeding are 1-3% of the cow's bodyweight daily. So a 1,000 lb (450 kg) cow shouldn't eat more than 30 lb (14 kg) of grain per day.[16]
    • Introduce grain slowly over a period of weeks. Start with 1 pound (0.45 kg) daily and scale up the feeding by 1 pound (0.45 kg) every 2 days. This gradually introduces the grain so your cow will not get sick.

Method Four of Four:
Caring for Your Cow

  1. 1
    Bring your cow to the vet every 6 months. Just like any other pet, your cow needs regular vet visits to stay healthy. Search your area for a local large animal specialist and have them check your cow every 6 months. Follow their instructions on proper care and feeding habits for your cow.[17]
    • If you know other farmers or large animal owners in the area, ask them for a vet recommendation.
    • Some large animal vets make house visits. If you don’t have a reliable way to transport your cow to an office, you should consider finding a vet that will come to you.
  2. 2
    Brush your cow’s hair every day. While healthy cows usually don’t need much brushing, this is an activity that cows enjoy. It feels good on their skin and can also be a bonding experience for you with your pet. It also gets cows accustomed to socializing and being handled. Get a special cow brush from a farm supply store and give your cow a brushing a few times per week.[18]
    • Brush every part of your cow's hide. This removes dirt that could cause infections and also scratches itches that the cow might not be able to reach. Use smooth motions and brush from front to back.
    • There are also brush stands available for purchase. You can set these up for your cow to rub against whenever it wants. This cuts down on the work you have to do every day.
    • If your cow was mistreated or suffered trauma earlier in life, it may resist being brushed. Don’t force your cow to let you brush it. Cows are still large animals and they could hurt you if they kick or move unexpectedly.
  3. 3
    Train your cow by offering food as a reward. Cows are naturally social and respond well to training when offered rewards. If you want your cow to perform an action, always be ready to offer a reward. They respond best to food rewards.[19]
    • Small amounts of grain feed work well as a reward. Remember, this should only be a treat for performing an action. Cows shouldn't eat much grain feed as part of their normal diet.
    • Introduce all training actions slowly. If you want to train a steer to carry a rider, approach the animal slowly. Stroke its fur and give it a treat after you pet it. Do this for several days so the animal gets used to your touch. Then saddle the steer, again offering a treat. Finally, when the steer stays calm while you pet and saddle it, try to climb on.
    • Never punish the cow or offer negative reinforcement. Cows are sensitive and have long memories. One bad experience training can make the cow uncooperative for a long time after.
  4. 4
    Stop flies from harassing your cow with chemicals or sprays. Cows attract flies, and they will not only annoy your cow, but they can spread diseases as well. Keep your cow healthy by fighting flies. There are several options for fly control. Use more than one to keep flies at bay.[20]
    • Certain medicines contain chemicals that kill flies that bite your cow. This can reduce the fly population on your property, but doesn't stop the flies from biting at first. Talk to your vet about getting this medication.
    • Fly tags are small, plastic containers that hook onto a cow's ear. They contain pesticides that keep flies away. These tags are available at most farm supply stores.
    • There are also sprays you can use that repel flies. They are also available at farm supply stores.
    • If you use any chemical solutions, change the chemical every year. This prevents flies from developing an immunity.
  5. 5
    Steer your cow away from mud and water. Cows kept in muddy and unsanitary conditions are susceptible to foot infections. To prevent foot problems, keep your cow on dry ground. Lead it away from puddles or flooded areas after it rains.[21]
    • Also protect your cow’s feet by keeping them away from rocky or rough terrain that could damage their hooves.
  6. 6
    Keep your cow and its pasture clean. Mud and manure can build up on your cow and in its pasture. Any time your cow is dirty, you can give it a bath. Start by spraying the cow down with the hose. Then use a cow shampoo and rub it in with the brush you use for regular grooming. Rinse the cow off again to complete the bath.[22]
    • Always wash your cow on a warm day so it doesn't get cold.
    • Use a shovel to remove any manure that your cow leaves. Leave it in a pile or container on your property. Then contact your local waste removal service to collect it.
    • Some farmers use manure for fertilizer. See if any local farmers are interested in buying your manure to make some extra money.[23]
  7. 7
    Get a professional to trim your cow’s hooves every few months. It’s very important to keep your cow’s feet in good shape. Regular hoof trimming helps prevent cracking and other foot problems. Ask your vet what the best trimming schedule is for your cow.[24]
    • Hire a professional to come and do the hoof trimming. If you try to do it yourself, you could injure your cow or do the job incorrectly. This can cause serious foot problems for your cow.
  8. 8
    Inspect your cow regularly for signs of disease. A number of afflictions can affect cows, and you should keep an eye out for any problems. There are a few common ones to inspect your cow for. Contact your vet if you suspect any of these problems.[25]
    • Bloat: This occurs when your cow has eaten too much protein. Its stomach distends, causing pain and digestion problems. Signs of bloat are a protrusion from the cow’s stomach area, excessive salivation, and signs of discomfort like kicking, groaning, and teeth grinding. This is an emergency, and you should contact your vet right away if you suspect bloat.
    • Foot rot: This is a bacterial infection of the hoof. If your cow is infected, it will resist putting weight on the foot. Visible symptoms are swelling and pus discharge from the hoof.
    • Respiratory infection: Cows can come down with diseases just like humans. If you notice coughing, sneezing, watery eyes, congestion, and loss of appetite, these indicate that your cow is sick.

Community Q&A

Add New Question
  • Question
    Can you have a cow if you don't live on a farm?
    Licensed Veterinary Technician
    Expert Answer
    • Sure, as long as you have appropriate space and shelter for the cow. Also, you need to be able to afford to feed a cow.
    Thanks! 0 0
  • Question
    My mother had two pet cows - now she just has one. Since they are herding animals, is it okay to have just one cow?
    Top Answerer
    • It's okay, they'll get by, but cows are better off with more than themselves to keep them company. Cows feel safer if they have more than one of their kind around.
    Thanks! 25 1
  • Question
    What is the average price range for a Holstein calf steer?
    Top Answerer
    • Depends on the calf's age, the weight of that calf, and current market prices. They can range from $50 to over $250.
    Thanks! 16 0
  • Question
    This cow keeps following me and if I lay down she lies down. I thought well maybe she likes me a lot, but when other cows come near me, she turns into a rage, trying to protect me. is this normal or does she think I'm her baby?
    Top Answerer
    • She is definitely attached to you, and sees you as her baby to protect. This is normal for a cow. And yes, that does mean she likes you a lot, so much that she actually gets jealous if other cows try to "attack" or get attention from you. I would count yourself lucky, as there's not too many people who has a cow that is this protective over them.
    Thanks! 44 5
  • Question
    Can I get a Hereford and not use it for beef, just keep it as a pet?
    Top Answerer
    • Of course. What you choose to do with your bovine is totally up to you. No one is going to judge you if you choose not to raise it for milk or meat.
    Thanks! 27 3
  • Question
    Do cows like to be pet or scratched like dogs & cats?
    Community Answer
    • Most cows don't, mostly because they aren't accustomed to constant human touch and contact. The "tame" ones that get close won't necessarily let you pet them like with a dog or a cat. Few others are docile enough and have been trained enough to be accustomed to touch. But because they're big and strong, they need to be treated with respect. Cows aren't small like dogs and cats and often not as gentle either, and they behave MUCH differently than dogs and cats do.
    Thanks! 30 8
  • Question
    Could I have a goat and cow live together?
    Top Answerer
    • You could, as long as the bovine is a young calf that will more easily get along with the goat than an older cow, typically. If a cow doesn't know what a goat is, doesn't associate a goat as being part of the herd or friendly in anyway, she can easily hurt that goat, resulting in neither of them getting along, especially at first meet-up. But if the cow is a calf that is smaller and not as big and more prone to hurt the goat, then they have a higher likelihood of getting along better as the calf grows and gets older and bigger.
    Thanks! 12 1
  • Question
    We have 2 mature, not-so-friendly cows in one paddock and 2 one-year-old very friendly calves in another paddock. Is it better to keep them separate, or join them? Will it be safe for little ones?
    Top Answerer
    • When you put the two groups together, the two cows will quickly become the dominant ones. There will be some fighting for dominance when you put them together; that is unavoidable and to be expected. The fighting will not last long, though, and after that everything will settle down back to normal again. The yearlings will be fine. The cows will teach them some things they won't learn themselves; competition for feed may be expected, but only if you don't provide enough or as many feeding places for the four of them. And having both groups together may help settle the cows down, too.
    Thanks! 6 0
  • Question
    I'm thinking about going into dairy showmanship for 4-h in the fall. What is the easiest and fastest way to get the calf used to me?
    Top Answerer
    • There really is no easy and fast way to get a calf used to you, other than being around it as often as possible, and being the one to feed it and change its bedding, halter-train it, groom it, and just hang around with it. It takes time for any bovine to get accustomed to a new face, so take your time and be patient. Good things come to those who wait.
    Thanks! 16 3
  • Question
    Are cows social animals?
    Top Answerer
    • Yes, they are. They need the company of others to feel safe and secure. They prefer the company of other cows over other animals, or even humans who aren't around nearly as often as other animals that share their space.
    Thanks! 9 2
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About This Article

Co-Authored By:
wikiHow Staff Editor
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Co-authors: 18
Updated: September 30, 2019
Views: 143,314
Categories: Cattle
Article Summary

If you’re thinking about getting a pet cow, first consider the advantages and disadvantages of owning one, like all the space you’ll need to keep one or the amount of manure you’ll have to deal with. Another important consideration is the type of cow you want to get, like a dairy cow for milking or a steer for beef. If a cow seems right for you, check your home to make sure you have at least 5 to 10 acres for the cow to live and graze in and make you’ll be able to give it plenty of food, water, and minerals to keep it healthy and productive.

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