How to Make a Living Raising Cattle

Dairies sell most of their bull calves, since the bulls take up valuable space for their future milk cows. If you have time to care for injured or sickly calves, dairies will sometimes give those calves away. Feedlots or cattle ranches only raise beef cattle, typically Herefords, and and these calves are harder to come by, since the rancher does not discriminate against the sex of the calf. But beef farmers will sell a calf if it is injured or sick. By tagging your herd in the ear, you can keep records of each calf as it grows.

Once you begin an association with dairies, you will be able to purchase milk from their hospital string for a minimal price -- or free of charge if the dairy has enough milk for their own calves. Using the milk from the hospital cows will reduce your cost of buying calf milk replacer. But you will still need milk replacer, since it contains valuable vitamins and minerals for the calves.

The cost of hay varies from month to month and finding a good supplier is important. Hay is graded by first, second, and third cutting, or harvest. The condition of the hay is an important factor. If the hay is brown or black or carries a mildew odor, avoid it. There are few nutrients in it at and it would be a waste of money. Moldy hay could make the calves sick.

With the help of a veterinarian, you can learn how to vaccinate your own herd and reduce the cost of future veterinarian bills. Cattle rustlers still exist. Branding your herd will not only deter thieves, but can save you money if the calf wanders off. Your neighbors may recognize your brand and call.

If you decide to sell your cattle as beef, an animal auction is best. Do research as to what days prices are up on cattle. If you have heifers, there are dairies that prefer not to raise any calves and favor buying the heifers at the age of four to six months from a supplier such as you. Animal auction houses and farm stores contain valuable information on these dairies.