Care and Feeding of Highland Cattle

Highland Cattle are easy keepers. Their ability to forage means they can thrive in poor grazing conditions. They also mature more slowly, which means that they can hold their condition for longer in poor conditions than many other breeds of cattle. They will survive where other breeds struggle. But at Flathead Farms, Highland cattle don't need to"survive".

They are fed on natural grasses and hay. Their large horns, on both females and males, ensures that they will have plenty of personal space.

The bull at right is feasting on a mix of vitamins, salt, and molasses -- all to ensure healthy growth for cattle feeding on hay.

Highland cows are good mothers. In the photo at left, a cow watches the photographer, on the alert for anything that might affect her calf. Note the heavy winter coats on both animals. The two layers of hair (an under down and a long overcoat) will keep them warm in Montana's winters.

No animal at Flathead Farms receives artificial growth hormones or stimulants, and all calves are vaccinated and wormed according to QHB standards when weaned. In the photo below, a cow and calf bask in late fall winter sunshine.