Cattle have long been central to farming, not only as a source of food but as part of the fabric of rural life. Across Northumberland and the UK, many farmers keep cattle for beef, dairy, or a mix of both. Caring for these animals requires a balance of tradition and modern farming practices, ensuring they stay healthy, productive, and well looked after.
Feeding Cattle
Cattle are ruminants, meaning they digest fibre rich feeds through a four part stomach, extracting maximum nutrients from forage.
Pasture Grazing: During spring and summer, cattle can thrive on lush pasture. Rotational grazing helps maintain grass quality and prevent overgrazing.
Winter Feeding: In colder months, hay, haylage, and silage are crucial substitutes when grass growth slows.
Concentrates: Grains and protein-rich supplements (e.g., soya, barley) may be added, especially for finishing beef cattle or supporting lactating cows.
Minerals: Licks or boluses supply vital trace elements like selenium, copper, and iodine.
Water: Each adult cow can drink 40–60 litres of fresh, clean water daily an often overlooked but essential requirement.
Housing & Shelter
Cattle can adapt to many climates, but their housing needs depend on the breed and system (intensive vs extensive).
Beef Cattle Outdoors: Hardy breeds like Highland and Belted Galloway thrive outdoors year-round, provided they have shelter from wind and rain.
Loose Housing Barns: Popular for wintering cattle, allowing freedom of movement and good ventilation.
Cubicle Housing (Dairy): Designed to reduce stress, maintain cleanliness, and maximise comfort for high yielding cows.
Bedding: Straw, sawdust, or sand helps maintain hygiene and comfort. Regular cleaning reduces mastitis and hoof issues.
General Health & Welfare
Routine Health Checks: Vaccinations against common diseases (BVD, IBR, leptospirosis) and parasite control (worms, fluke, lice).
Hoof Trimming: Prevents lameness and improves mobility.
Fly & Tick Control: Essential in warmer months to reduce irritation and disease spread.
Behavioural Monitoring: Cattle are social herd animals isolation, pacing, or loss of appetite often signal illness or stress.
Breeding & Calving
Breeding is one of the most important areas of cattle management.
Breeding Seasons: Many farmers synchronise breeding for easier management.
Gestation: About 283 days (9 months).
Calving: Close monitoring is vital, especially with heifers (first-time mothers). Assistance may be required for difficult births, particularly with larger breeds like Charolais. Post Calving Ensure calves receive colostrum in the first 24 hours it’s their lifeline for immunity.
Popular Cattle Breeds (Beef Focus)
| Breed | Characteristics | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Aberdeen Angus | Hardy, naturally polled, produces tender, marbled beef. Great on grass. | Beef |
| Hereford | Docile, adaptable, excellent grazers, good for mixed farms. | Beef |
| Limousin | Muscular, efficient feed conversion, fast-growing calves. | Beef |
| Charolais | Large-framed, rapid growth, high-yield beef cattle. | Beef |
| Simmental | Strong maternal instincts, versatile, beef & dairy traits. | Beef/Dual-purpose |
| Highland Cattle | Shaggy-coated, hardy, thrive on rough land, premium beef niche. | Beef |
| Belted Galloway | Iconic “Oreo cows,” thrive on poor grazing land, high-quality lean beef. | Beef |
Calf Rearing Basics
Colostrum: Golden first milk 4 litres within the first 6 hours.
Milk Feeding: Via natural suckling or milk replacers for orphans.
Creep Feeding: Introduced at 2–3 weeks for healthy rumen development.
Weaning: 6–8 months depending on system.
Health Watch: Key issues include scours, pneumonia, and navel infections.
Role in the Farm System
Beef Systems: Cattle convert grass into high-quality protein, contributing to sustainable farming.
Manure Use: Provides natural fertiliser for fields.
Breeding Herds: Maintain bloodlines and long-term productivity.
Companionship & Landscape Management: Highland and native breeds play a role in conservation grazing and maintaining natural landscapes.
Final Thoughts
Cattle farming is a blend of tradition, hard work, and passion. From the rugged Highlands to the lush pastures of Northumberland, herds remain a defining part of our countryside. With the right care quality feed, proper housing, and good herd management these gentle giants will reward farmers with healthy calves, premium beef, and a legacy that endures.
