Nikki and Scott Royer, graduates of the Purdue University School of Agriculture, raise cattle on their diversified family farm in Indiana. In addition to raising the calves from their own cow herd, the Royers also purchase and finish feeder cattle from other producers.

Introduction 1

Part I: Getting to Know Beef Cattle 7

Chapter 1: The Rewards and Responsibilities of Raising Beef Cattle 9

Chapter 2: Bovine Basics: Understanding Cattle Terminology and Anatomy 23

Chapter 3: From Angus to Zebu: Looking at Beef Cattle Breeds and Traits 35

Part II: Preparing to Bring Home the Beef 53

Chapter 4: Home on the Range: Preparing Your Facilities 55

Chapter 5: Chow Time: Planning Your Feeding Program 79

Chapter 6: Exploring Pasture, Manure, and Water Management 107

Chapter 7: Choosing and Buying Cattle 127

Part III: Cattle Handling, Health, and Breeding 145

Chapter 8: Understanding and Properly Handling Cattle 147

Chapter 9: Keeping Your Cattle Healthy 165

Chapter 10: Addressing Common Cattle Ailments 191

Chapter 11: Breeding Cows and Caring for Pregnant Females 213

Chapter 12: Looking After Calves Young and Old 241

Part IV: Realizing Your Cattle Business Potential 261

Chapter 13: Turning Your Extra Pastures into a Money-Making Business 263

Chapter 14: Showing and Selling Cattle 275

Chapter 15: Managing Your Beef Business 293

Part V: The Part of Tens 311

Chapter 16: Ten Common Mistakes to Avoid When Raising Cattle 313

Chapter 17: Ten (or so) Bizarre Bovine Behaviors . . . and What They Mean 321

Index 327