Everything You Need to Know About Mini Cows
Routine Health Maintenance
Schedule wellness checks at least once a year. Early detection of small issues prevents costly problems later.
Core areas to monitor:
- Body condition and coat quality
- Appetite and water intake
- Hoof growth and soundness
- Eye clarity and nasal discharge
- Signs of external parasites or skin irritation
A healthy mini Highland will have bright eyes, a glossy coat, and an easy, confident walk.
Vaccinations and Parasite Control
Work with a local large-animal veterinarian to tailor a vaccination schedule to your region.
In most areas, a basic annual vaccination program includes:
- IBR, BVD, PI3, BRSV: respiratory protection
- Leptospirosis: annual or every six months in warm climates
- Clostridial 7-Way (Blackleg): once yearly
- Vibriosis: 30–60 days before breeding
- Brucellosis: for heifers between 4–12 months (required in many states)
For deworming, rotate products seasonally and test fecal samples yearly to avoid resistance. Minis usually require smaller doses—dose by accurate weight, not by guesswork.
Hoof and Coat Care
Highlands grow strong hooves naturally on firm ground, but periodic trimming prevents cracks or uneven wear—especially on soft or wet soils. Schedule trimming once times per year, depending on terrain.
Their heavy coats shed seasonally. Brushing helps remove old hair, improve circulation, and strengthens the bond between cattle and handler. During extreme heat, provide shade and airflow to prevent overheating.
Calf and Bottle Care
Newborn calves need colostrum within the first few hours of life. Colostrum provides essential antibodies that build immunity. If a calf is too weak to nurse, use stored or commercial colostrum replacer as soon as possible.
For bottle calves:
- Feed warmed milk or replacer at 101–105°F, twice daily.
- Offer clean water and calf starter within the first week.
- Keep bedding dry and free from drafts.
- Introduce small amounts of hay after 4–6 weeks.
Healthy calves are bright, curious, and quick to rise after feedings.
Veterinary Partnership
The best investment you can make is a relationship with a veterinarian who understands small-scale beef or miniature breeds. Schedule annual herd evaluations, pregnancy checks, and vaccine updates.
Document each animal’s health record—vaccines, treatments, and weights. Good records help track growth patterns and identify herd-wide trends early.
Health Standards at Hairy Heifer Cattle Company
At Hairy Heifer Cattle Company, we prioritize prevention over treatment. Our minis are raised under a structured health plan that includes vaccinations, deworming, hoof care, and low-stress handling. Every calf is inspected regularly for soundness and temperament.
We work with licensed veterinarians to maintain strict health records and ensure each animal leaves our program strong, healthy, and ready to thrive in new homes.
Learn more about our care standards and available calves at HairyHeifer.com
Routine care keeps Mini Highland cattle healthy and thriving year-round.