How to Care for Jersey Steers

For a farmer operating a small farm, Jersey cows and steers make a lot of sense. Jersey cows and steers are smaller than most cows, averaging around 1,000 lbs. per animal, so you can have more of them in a small amount of space. They are very self-sufficient, and the cows have a high fertility rate and usually have an easy time when calving. Jersey steers serve two purposes: breeding and slaughtering for meat production. Caring for Jersey steers requires keeping them well fed and watered, with a suitable shelter to protect them from the elements, and maintaining their health with the aid of a veterinarian.

Things You'll Need

  • Pasture grass
  • Hay
  • Water troughs
  • Shelter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Ensure that the Jersey steers have enough pasture area for grazing. Allow for at least 1/2 acre per steer. Seed or sod pasture grasses, such as rye grass, fescue or bluegrass, for your steers to feed on.

    • 2

      Arrange to have hay available during the winter months when pasture grass may be scarce. Obtain grass hay or hay made from alfalfa or cereal grains, which make the best steer feed. Use a reliable source for your hay by talking with other farmers or checking with your local extension office. Ask for nitrate testing of the product prior to delivery to ensure your steers do not get nitrate poisoning. Have a variety of other food, such as corn and barley, available as feeding options as well.

    • 3

      Have plenty of water available for your steers. Arrange your pasture around a natural body of water, such as a pond, for them to drink from and cool themselves off in during hot days. Consider having a man-made body of water created if a natural one is not around. Place several water troughs around the pasture area and keep them filled with fresh, clean water.

    • 4

      Build a barn or a three-sided shelter to protect your cows from harsh elements, such as wind or snow. The shelter can be simple, but should be sturdy due to the weight and size of the Jersey steers.

    • 5

      Contact a veterinarian to oversee the general health of your Jersey steers. Have the steers checked at least every six months for health issues around castration, parasites or other potential health problems.