Highland cattle are magnificent animals known for their shaggy coats, gentle demeanor, and hardy nature. Whether you’re starting a small farm, expanding your herd, or simply adding a few of these iconic “hairy coos” to your property, making a smart purchase is crucial. Unlike buying a piece of equipment, you’re investing in a living being that will be part of your life for years. A thorough inspection before you buy can save you from costly vet bills, heartache, and management headaches down the line.
This guide will walk you through the essential steps of inspecting Highland cattle, ensuring you bring home healthy, well-suited animals for your operation.
1. Start with Research and Seller Reputation
Before you even set foot on a farm, do your homework. A reputable breeder or seller is your first line of defense.
- Breeder History: Look for established breeders with a proven track record. Check online reviews, ask for references from past buyers, and see if they are involved in breed associations.
- Farm Visit: Always insist on visiting the farm where the cattle are raised. This allows you to see the conditions firsthand and observe the entire herd, not just the individual animal for sale.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be shy. Ask about the animal’s lineage, age, vaccination history, deworming schedule, and any past health issues. A transparent seller will have this information readily available.
2. The Overall Health Check: What to Look For
Your initial observation should be from a distance, assessing the animal’s general condition and behavior within the herd.
- Alertness & Demeanor: A healthy Highland cow or bull should be alert and curious, not lethargic or overly skittish. Observe its interaction with the herd; it should be integrated, not isolated.
- Body Condition: Despite their thick hair, you should assess body condition. Look for a well-covered but not obese animal. Ribs should not be visible, but you should be able to feel them with gentle pressure. A prominent spine or hip bones can indicate undernourishment or illness.
- Movement (Gait): Watch the animal walk. It should move freely and evenly without limping, stiffness, or signs of lameness. Any hitch in its step warrants a closer veterinary examination.
3. The Hands-On Physical Inspection
With the seller’s permission, conduct a closer physical exam. This is where you’ll check the specifics.
- Eyes, Nose, and Ears: Eyes should be clear, bright, and free of discharge. The nose should be moist (not dry and cracked) and also free of unusual discharge. Ears should be clean and actively moving.
- Coat and Skin: Part the long hair to inspect the skin. It should be clean, supple, and free of lumps, lesions, parasites (like lice or ticks), or signs of fungal infection (ringworm). The coat itself, while shaggy, should not be excessively matted or foul-smelling.
- Feet and Legs: This is critical. Check hooves for overgrowth, cracks, or signs of rot (like a foul odor). Legs should be straight and strong, with well-formed joints.
- Udder (for Cows): If inspecting a cow, check the udder. It should be symmetrical, soft, and free of hard lumps, which could indicate mastitis. Observe for any signs of swelling or abnormal discharge.
4. Key Documentation and Final Steps
Never finalize a purchase without the proper paperwork.
- Health Certificate: Request a recent health certificate from a licensed veterinarian, ideally issued within 30 days. This is often a legal requirement for transport across state lines.
- Pedigree Papers: If you are buying registered Highland cattle, ensure the pedigree papers are in order and will be transferred to your name.
- Bill of Sale: A clear bill of sale detailing the animal’s description, price, and any guarantees or warranties (e.g., a guarantee against certain congenital defects for a short period) protects both buyer and seller.
5. Planning for Transport and Quarantine
Your responsibility begins the moment you decide to buy.
- Safe Transport: Arrange appropriate, well-ventilated transportation. Highland cattle are generally calm travelers, but stress should be minimized.
- Quarantine: Upon arrival, plan to quarantine new animals away from your existing herd for at least 2-4 weeks. This allows you to monitor them for any illnesses that may not have been apparent and lets them acclimate to their new environment.
Buying Highland cattle is an exciting venture. By taking the time to inspect thoroughly, ask the right questions, and secure proper documentation, you are investing in the long-term health and happiness of your new animals and the success of your farm. A careful, informed purchase is the first step toward enjoying the unique rewards of raising these majestic and gentle giants.
