Cattle - The Accidental Smallholder

Our cattle keeping enterprise began in Autumn 2010 with the purchase of two Shetland heifers. Many smallholders are put off keeping cattle because of their size and the amount of grazing they need. While a cow does need more grass than a sheep, the native breeds are thrifty and can outwinter in most years; with training and handling, they are much easier to handle than you might expect.  And a house cow will give you access to your own fresh milk and beef – so don’t rule out cattle keeping. Our guide will help you make up your mind.

Guides & articles:

• An Introduction to Keeping Cattle
  • Starting with cattle
  • Cattle legalities and practicalities
• Enterprises involving cattle
• Cattle Breeds
  • British rare and traditional cattle breeds
  • Other British traditional breeds
• Buying Cattle
• Transporting and handling cattle
• Feeding cattle
• Housing cattle
• Fencing for cattle
• Multiple-Suckling with Shetland Cattle