Cattle vs. Sheep: Which Makes More Money?

Summary

In this video, we explore the financial and practical differences between raising cattle and sheep on a small farm. The script breaks down the costs, daily care, potential profits, and growth rates of both animals. Sheep are cheaper to buy and can provide quicker returns with wool and lamb production, while cattle offer steady long-term products like beef and milk. The video emphasizes that choosing between sheep and cattle depends on your budget, land, and farming goals, helping viewers make an informed decision based on their needs and resources.

Takeaways

• 😀 Sheep are much cheaper to buy than cattle, with a ewe costing $200-$400 compared to a cow's $1,200-$2,000.
• 🐄 Cattle require more expensive fencing and equipment, like barbed wire or squeeze chutes, while sheep need predator-proof fencing and potentially livestock guardian dogs.
• 🍽 Cattle consume more feed, around 25-30 pounds of hay per day, while sheep only require 3-5 pounds per day, making them more affordable in terms of feeding.
• 👩‍⚕️ Cattle need fewer vet visits, but when they do require care, the bills can be much higher. Sheep require more frequent care, like deworming and hoof trimming.
• 💸 Sheep may bring in more profit per acre with lambs, wool, and milk, while cattle offer beef and milk, though leather isn't a major profit source for small farms.
• 🚜 Sheep reproduce faster, with 1-2 lambs per year per ewe, enabling quicker flock expansion compared to cattle, which typically only produce one calf per year.
• 🩺 Cattle can be expensive to fix if injured or sick, and their larger size makes handling more challenging, whereas sheep face more frequent issues with predators and parasites.
• 📊 Profit from cattle can come from beef and milk, but sheep have additional income opportunities through wool and milk, particularly in niche markets like cheese.
• ⚖️ Startup costs for cattle are higher, but sheep incur more time and care costs due to their smaller size and higher vulnerability to health issues.
• ⏱ If you're aiming for rapid growth in your farm, sheep can provide faster returns, but if you want slower, steady growth, cattle may be the better fit.
• 🌾 Regardless of your choice, it's recommended to start small and gradually scale your farm as you learn more about your animals' needs and your land's capacity.

Q & A

What is the initial cost difference between cows and sheep?

A single cow can cost between $1,200 and $2,000, while a ewe (female sheep) usually costs between $200 and $400. This means for the price of one cow, you could buy 4 to 10 sheep.

What equipment is necessary for handling cattle compared to sheep?

Cattle require strong fencing, such as barbed wire or electric wire, and additional equipment like a head gate or squeeze chute for handling. Sheep, being smaller, don't require heavy-duty gear, but you will need predator-proof fencing and potentially a livestock guardian dog.

How do the feeding costs compare between cattle and sheep?

Cattle eat much more than sheep, consuming around 25-30 pounds of hay per day. In contrast, sheep eat only about 3-5 pounds of hay daily, meaning you can feed 5-6 sheep for what it takes to feed one cow.

What are the key differences in daily care for cattle and sheep?

Cattle require less frequent vet visits, but they are more expensive when they do happen. Sheep need more hands-on care, such as regular deworming and hoof trimming. Sheep are also more prone to parasites, while cattle are generally easier to manage in terms of health maintenance.

What potential profits can a farmer expect from raising cattle versus sheep?

A beef cow can yield around $1,762 when sold at weaning weight, while a flock of 10 ewes can yield $2,550 in lamb sales alone. Additionally, sheep provide wool and milk, which can further increase revenue.

What are the long-term financial prospects for raising cattle and sheep?

Cattle can offer steady, long-term products like milk and beef. In contrast, sheep may offer faster financial returns due to their higher reproduction rate and additional revenue streams like wool and milk.

How quickly can a sheep flock grow compared to a cattle herd?

Sheep grow faster than cattle, with most ewes having 1 to 2 lambs per year, and some even having twins or triplets. In a couple of years, a flock can double or triple in size, while cattle generally only produce one calf per year.

What are the risks associated with raising cattle versus sheep?

Cattle can be expensive to treat when injured or sick, with vet bills potentially reaching hundreds of dollars. Loose cattle can also be dangerous and difficult to catch. Sheep face risks from predators and parasites, and even small losses, like lambs dying from cold or illness, can add up.

Which animal is better suited for small farms with limited land?

Sheep are better suited for small farms with limited land, as they require less space and feed. Their faster reproduction rate and lower feed consumption can make them more profitable on smaller acreages compared to cattle.

What should a farmer consider when deciding between raising cattle or sheep?

Farmers should consider factors like initial costs, daily care requirements, long-term profitability, and available resources. If you have limited time and resources, sheep may be a better fit. If you prefer a steadier, long-term investment and have more space, cattle might be the better choice.