Cows, often seen as mere livestock, are in fact emotionally intelligent creatures capable of forming strong social bonds with humans and other animals. One question that frequently arises about cows is whether they enjoy being petted or not.
On average, cows enjoy being petted, at least when they are receptive to it. Studies have shown that cows tend to be more relaxed and happy after being petted.
Right, so now that we know that cows enjoy being petted, we have to pet them! In this article, we will closely examine these gentle giants and aim to assist you if you are interested in trying out the experience of petting a cow!
The Emotional Intelligence of Cows
Some folks think that cows are just lumbering giants incapable of much thought.
Contrary to the common misconception that cows are unintelligent, studies have shown that they are indeed very smart, curious, and capable of critical thinking and problem-solving.
They can form strong social bonds with people and other animals, displaying a level of emotional intelligence that is often underestimated.
If you sit and watch a herd of cows for long, you’ll start noticing they have interactions with the other cows. Each interaction seems to be a bit different.
Cows and Physical Affection
For this article, I reached out to a group of fellow cow enthusiasts and did a poll. After asking the question “Do your cows enjoy being petted?”, 96% said yes!
Many cows do love being petted, stroked, and brushed. They are very affectionate animals that appreciate the attention and care given to them. If you show them affection, they will often reciprocate by following you around, licking you, and even resting their head on your lap. This interaction is not only beneficial for the cow but can also be a rewarding and therapeutic experience for the person.
However, it’s important to note that each cow is an individual with its own personality and preferences. While some may enjoy being petted, others may be more reserved or even averse to it. It’s essential to respect each cow’s boundaries and observe their reactions to understand what they are comfortable with.
How to Pet a Cow
When petting a cow, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a positive experience for both you and the cow. Cows have sensitive noses and ears, and they may not appreciate being touched in these areas. Instead, try petting the cow on its back or sides. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that might startle the animal.
Approach the cow slowly and calmly, extending your hand and allowing the cow to sniff you before you touch it. This helps the cow recognize you as a friend, not a threat. Gentle strokes and scratches, particularly along the back and behind the ears, are usually well-received.
Bonding Early
This is by far the most important step you can take to ensure your cows will be friendly and enjoy being petted.
Establishing a bond with your calf at an early stage is crucial for a number of reasons. First, it helps in socializing the calf, making it more comfortable around humans. This early interaction can significantly influence the calf’s behavior as it grows, making it more receptive to being petted and handled.
Additionally, early bonding can foster trust between you and the calf, making future interactions smoother and more enjoyable. It’s during this time that the calf learns to associate humans with positive experiences, such as food, grooming, and affection. Therefore, investing time in bonding with your calf early on can lead to a more affectionate and manageable cow in the future.
A word of caution here, make sure the momma cow is contained while you bond with the calf. Momma cows can be very dangerous if they perceive you to be a threat to their young. I’ve known farmers to be seriously injured even with a momma cow they completely trusted.
How to Bond with a Cow
Bonding with a cow involves more than just petting. Spending time with the cow, talking to it, and walking with it can help strengthen your bond. Providing rewards, such as treats or grooming, can also enhance this interaction. Over time, the cow may start to recognize you and show signs of affection, such as coming to you when you call or showing excitement when you arrive.
My father spends lots of time with his cattle and it shows. When he goes up to them and walks around, they don’t even mind him being there at all. However, when anybody else visits and approaches the cattle, they will be immediately concerned and extremely cautious.
Conclusion
Cows are complex and intelligent creatures that are capable of forming deep bonds with humans. Many cows do enjoy being petted and show signs of affection in return. However, it’s important to approach them with respect and patience, understanding that each cow is unique. With time and care, you can form a rewarding relationship with these gentle giants.