How do you appreciate the uses of cattle?

Uses of Cattle

Cattle are primarily reared for three major purposes:

• Milk production
• Bullock (draught) work
• Meat production

Species of Cattle in India

There are two main species of cattle found in India:

1. Bos indicus (cows)
2. Bos bubalis (buffaloes)

• Female cattle that produce milk are called milch (dairy) animals.
• Cattle used for farm labor, such as ploughing or transport, are called draught animals.

Milk Production

• Milk yield depends on the lactation period. This can be enhanced by using exotic breeds like Jersey and Brown Swiss.
• Local breeds such as Red Sindhi and Sahiwal are more disease-resistant.
• Cross-breeding between exotic and local cattle helps combine high milk yield with disease resistance.
• Cattle milk is highly nutritious and rich in proteins.

Meat Production

• Cattle are also reared for meat, which is known as beef and consumed worldwide.
• Typically, cattle are used for milk production first, and when they stop lactating, they are shifted to meat production.

Bullock/Draught Purpose

• Bullocks are used for transportation of goods and tillage operations in fields.
• They remain important in rural farming systems where mechanization is limited.

Note on Cattle Health

• Diseases caused by external or internal parasites can lower milk yield and reduce working efficiency.
• Regular vaccination against viral and bacterial infections is essential for maintaining healthy cattle and ensuring long-term productivity.