What Do Highland Cows Eat? A Guide to Their Diet Year-Round
Highland cows are known for their hardy nature and ability to survive in some of the toughest environments. But what do Highland cows eat to stay so healthy and strong throughout the year?
In this guide, we’ll explore their seasonal diet, natural grazing habits, and the supplemental nutrition they may need — whether you’re keeping Highland cattle or just curious about how these beautiful animals thrive.
(📖 Related: Fun Facts About Highland Cows)
Natural Grazers: The Base of Their Diet
Highland cows are primarily herbivores and thrive on grazing pastures. They are excellent foragers, often eating coarse grasses and plants that other breeds won’t touch.
They’re known for their ability to graze on:
- Rough grass
- Heather
- Thistles
- Brush and shrubs
This makes them ideal for conservation grazing and managing wild landscapes.
Spring and Summer Feeding
During warmer months, Highland cows can typically meet all their nutritional needs through grazing. Fresh grass is rich in nutrients and helps them maintain a healthy weight and coat.
However, make sure they also have constant access to:
- Fresh water
- Mineral licks (especially with salt and magnesium)
They’re low-maintenance in these seasons, but it’s still important to monitor pasture quality.
What Do Highland Cows Eat in Winter?
In colder months, especially where snow covers pasture, Highland cows need to be supplemented with:
- Hay – their main food source during winter
- Silage – fermented, high-moisture grass or corn
- Grain feed (optional) – for extra energy in very cold weather
Even though they can handle harsh climates, providing enough hay is essential to keep them healthy through winter.
Supplements and Minerals
Highland cows often benefit from free-choice mineral licks or blocks. These help prevent deficiencies that could impact their immune system, reproduction, and coat quality.
Popular supplements include:
- Salt licks
- Magnesium blocks
- Mineral tubs with vitamins A, D, and E
These aren’t always essential if they have rich pasture, but in winter or poor soil conditions, they become more important.
Do Highland Cows Eat Vegetables or Fruit?
Some Highland cow owners offer treats like:
- Carrots
- Apples (sliced)
- Pumpkin (cut into chunks)
These can be fun and safe in moderation. However, avoid feeding anything moldy, overly starchy, or processed.
Feeding Tips for First-Time Owners
If you’re considering raising Highland cows, here are a few essential feeding tips:
- Rotate pastures to prevent overgrazing
- Ensure constant access to clean water
- Introduce supplements slowly
- Don’t overfeed grain — they don’t need it unless advised by a vet
How Much Do Highland Cows Eat Per Day?
On average, a Highland cow will consume:
- About 2–3% of its body weight in dry matter daily
- Roughly 25–30 lbs (11–14 kg) of hay per day in winter
Pregnant or nursing cows may require more.
Final Thoughts
So, what do Highland cows eat? A balanced, grass-based diet year-round — supplemented with hay, minerals, and the occasional treat — keeps them healthy and thriving.
Whether you’re planning to raise Highland cows or simply love learning about them, knowing what fuels these fluffy, majestic animals gives you a deeper appreciation for their strength and adaptability.
(🔗 Source: Farmers Weekly – Cattle Feeding Guide)
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