How to Massage a Cow

Like many animals, cows like being petted, brushed and massaged. While it might not be common knowledge, there are actually devices sold for this specific purpose. Farmers can attest to not only the advantages of massaging cows but also how much the animals enjoy it. According to the DeLaval company, "cow brushes improve animal welfare and promote correct cow traffic in the barn." However, there are cheaper ways to keep your bovines clean and feeling well with the use of less specialized equipment. To a degree, you can groom or massage a cow in the same manner you would more common household pets.

Things You'll Need

  • Hand brush
  • Electronic cow brush
  • Tweezers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Start around the neck and massage gently with your fingers up to the ears. Move down along the area of the spine in a circular motion. Firmly press into the cow's skin.

    • 2

      Use a large, fluffy brush and run it both against and with the grain of the cow's hair. If the brush is soft and the cow responds favorably, continue with the brush in between massaging. Avoid using a wiry or metal brush. The tongs may irritate the cow.

    • 3

      Rub back and forth on the back using both techniques. Stop once you get to the cow's butt and reverse to eventually return to the head. Switch off between massaging with your hands and brushing the cow all along its back and neck.

    • 4

      Purchase and install a swinging, electronic cow brush. The brush is a mechanical device that spins freely and allows cows to rub up against it. The device acts in both a brushing and massaging manner to encourage the bovine spirit. The product is available on websites like Alibaba.com and through farm equipment suppliers like DeLaval or St. George.