How much would a normal Cow cost?

Im planning on buying about 3 of them, and Im not going to eat them or use them for dairy

Where do you live? Are there cattle farms nearby? Why not ask a farmer? Nice that you are going to rescue several cows. I have just become vegan and believe in live-and-let-live.

Do you have pasture for summer grazing; can you buy hay or have your fields cut and the grass baled for winter fodder?

Depends on what breed and type of cow and your climate and conditions.

That’s kind of like asking how much a normal car costs. There is a huge difference in price between a used, beat up, old model pick-up truck and a shiny new sports car.

Do you want a milk cow, a meat cow, a pregnant cow that will provide you with a calf, a young cow to raise to an adult for resale, etc…?

Go to your local ranch supply store, check the bulletin board and ask the folks there, They should be able to give you a better idea of local prices and availability.

You can check with your local Agriculture Extension office and your local Humane Society. I worked on a hoarder rescue where we were in desperate need of re-homing several farm animals, including 4 cows so it’s very possible that you could acquire animals at no cost outright.
However: Please be aware that the cost of the cow is only the beginning of your financial commitment. Shelter needs to be maintained, additional fodder has to be purchased in the winter months and they need to be vaccinated for infectious diseases. I would start by contacting a large animal veterinarian in your area and getting information about cattle issues where you live.

Here is a current ad:

“calves, around 4 months old
weaned, in the paddock,
great pets/ grasseaters
out of friesian mothers x with either murray grey, angus or hereford father.
steers $500 and heifers $550 firm, no gst, please email chickencustard@hotmail.com for inquiries”

@marinelife Those prices might be a little high. I’m looking at some cow checks and a 900 pound feeder steer went for $450.

@Adirondackwannabe It might be because of the Friesian.

@marinelife These were Holstein Friesians. It could be because they’re crossed with something else they look nicer.

Normal cows vs. abnormal cows? lol

Do you want the cow as a family pet?

You are aware that a Cow is not a bull, or a steer. A Cow is a female bovine, and so, you would want either a Cow or a steer a neutered bull

Check with your local 4-H group, every county has one and see about purchasing a non-breeding, less than “perfect” breeding animal.

You should be able to find a cow, dependent on breed for less than $1000 dollars. In my area, I’d say average would be $500—$800, again, dependent on breed & age.

You could find a bottle fed calf for less, if you are willing to hand raise him/her which is very rewarding and creates a bond with the animal.

Be aware you will be bottle feeding round the clock for weeks with a 2 week old calf.

I suggest you purchase a halter trained bovine as a wild cow or steer is going to be waaay too much animal for a novice to handle.

Cattle that are shown and handled by exhibitionists like 4-H kids are your best choice.

You can get them from the animal shelter free here in our area.

@YARNLADY Free cows at your local animal shelter? On a regular basis? How does a steady supply of cows end up at an animal shelter?

And @itsjustcruel and @Coloma: Why are you guys capitalizing the word “cow?” I’m confused. Have I missed something? Is a Cow different that a cow?

@lillycoyote Probably only from time to time. People in California are really feeling the depression and animals are getting the brunt of it. The news tells of a farm where dozens of dead horses were recently discovered. When they can, people give their livestock to the Animal Shelter.

@lillycoyote , no, just mis-capping, short circuit. haha