Cows

Cows are one of the most important domestic animals in the world. People have raised cows for about 10,000 years. Cows give us milk, which is used to make cheese, butter, yogurt, and ice cream. They are gentle animals that enjoy being around other cows.

How Cows Eat

Cows have a special stomach with four parts. This helps them digest tough grass and hay. Cows chew their food, swallow it, then bring it back up to chew it again. This is called chewing cud. A cow spends about 8 hours a day chewing.

Cows Are Social

Cows are very social animals that make friends with other cows. They can recognize over 100 other cows by their faces. Cows get stressed when they are separated from their friends. Mother cows are very protective and loving toward their calves.

Fun Facts

• A cow can produce about 6 gallons of milk every day.
• Cows have almost 360-degree vision, so they can see in almost every direction.
• There are over 1,000 different breeds of cattle around the world.

Did You Know?

Cows have best friends! Research shows that cows get stressed when they are separated from the cows they like most. They are happier and make more milk when they are with their friends.