How do I Raise Cattle in East Texas?

If you're interested in raising cattle in east Texas and have little experience, consider raising some of Texas's own, the Texas longhorn. These are among the easiest to raise and hardiest of cattle breeds, requiring the least amount of time and attention. The Texas longhorn will mostly take care of itself, including defending its calves from predators. The longhorn does such a fine job that many times, other herds will keep a longhorn just for that purpose. With the longhorn, the cattle do most of the raising.

Things You'll Need

  • Shelter for cattle
  • Grazing land
  • Feed
  • Stock pond
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build a barn or some form of open shelter for the cattle. Because east Texas can have inclement weather that dips below freezing, cattle need a sheltered place. Likewise, because east Texas can become hot in the summer, your pasture should have trees for shade.

    • 2

      Fence in a good-sized pasture for grazing. However, grazing won't be enough year-round. You'll also need to lay in stores of hay and grains to supplement their diet. Check with a veterinarian to determine the proper ratio of grain to hay based on the size of your cattle.

    • 3

      Buy a starting herd of cattle, like the Texas longhorns. Not only are they suited to east Texas's climate, but also they are very hardy and disease resistant. Moreover, longhorns can typically deliver calves without the assistance of a veterinarian. These cattle require less supervision and care than many other breeds.

    • 4

      Maintain a close relationship with a veterinarian, and set up a regiment against parasites. Although the longhorn will require less care, plan for regular checks to make sure the cattle are healthy. Set up a schedule to track worming treatments, vaccinations, births, etc. Consider purchasing a software management package specific to cattle management.

    • 5

      Fertilize the pasture every second or third year. With other breeds, yearly fertilization is typically required, but not so with Texas longhorns. Some Texas longhorn ranchers opt not to fertilize at all, since the breed is hardy and can eat a wider variety of weeds and grasses.

    • 6

      Put in a stock pond, if your land doesn't already have one. Your cattle will need a steady source of water, and a stock pond will be easier to manage than watering troughs. Having a good pond is especially important if you intend to leave the cattle outdoors day and night for much of the year.