| Miniature Zebu are a hearty, disease resistant strain
of cattle. They are a breed that loves hot weather and will
lay in full sun on the hottest days of the year. On windy
or cold days they prefer to spend their time inside a
shelter.
Their distinguishing characteristic is a well
developed hump, especially on the mature bulls. They have
the Brahman look except their ears are erect rather than
pendulous. Both bulls and cows have horns of moderate
size. In comparison to conventional breeds of cattle
Miniature Zebu are slow to mature. They need an extra 6 or
12 months of age before they first breed. This is one of
the reasons that they are relatively rare in the United
States.
Miniature cattle make wonderful pets and are ideal for
the small acreage farmer. They need only about a third of
the pasture and feed that regular cattle require enabling
the owner to raise three times as many calves each year.
Miniature cattle are much easier on the land, fencing
and equipment and are considerably safer for children (and
adults) to be around. They are also easier and safer to
confine for inspection and veterinarian care. Expensive
heavy-duty equipment is not needed. Full grown Miniature
Zebu weigh only 300 to 500 pounds and typically measure 34
to 40 inches in height measured immediately behind the
hump. |
