How to Raise Charolais Cattle

Charlolais are a breed of beef cattle raised exclusively for their meat. They are valued in the beef industry for their ability to gain weight efficiently and respond well to many types of conditions. The speed at which they grow depends on the management practices with which they are fed. On most Charolais farms, a part of the herd is slaughtered at a specific time of year -- generally the fall before the grass stops growing -- and the rest is kept as breeding stock.

Things You'll Need

  • Fencing supplies
  • Water source
  • Feed manger
  • Hay ring
  • Shelter
  • Pasture
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Instructions

    • 1

      Build a fence around all available pasture area. The more grass that is available for grazing, the less hay that will have to be supplemented to the diet. A single strand of electric wire is often more effective at keeping beef cattle in than barbed wire.

    • 2

      Supply a water source for the Charolais inside their pasture. Although creeks are sufficient, small streams may dry up in the summer and require water having to be hauled. Water tubs also work, but unless a hose can reach it, water will have to be carried to the tub manually every day. Water fountains are most efficient water sources.

    • 3

      Place a hay ring inside the pasture. Make sure it is not too far from the gate. Hay rings help contain the hay the Charolais eat from round bales.

    • 4

      Provide a source of shelter for the cattle. Although Charolais are hardy animals and can withstand tough weather, you need to offer them a place to escape the sun, such as a lean-to or pole barn. They must also have shelter during the winter in regions where it snows.

    • 5

      Supplement the cattle's diet with hay bales when they run out of pasture. Place a new round bale in the ring every time it is empty. You may choose to add grain to their diet, which adds to the cost of raising them, but also quickens the pace at which they grow. The more grain you feed them, the faster they gain weight.

    • 6

      Slaughter or send a portion of the herd to market at the most economical time. This can either be when the price of beef is high, or in the fall when grass runs short. Retain the most genetically superior Charolais for breeding stock.