How to Start a Cattle Farming Business: Harvest in 4 Months

How to Start a Cattle Farming Business; Key Strategies to Harvest Beef Cattle in Just 4 Months. Beef is always in high demand, especially during festive seasons and celebrations. During these times, prices can skyrocket. Besides, with the growing population, a booming culinary business, and increased purchasing power, the demand for beef has been rising steadily. It’s no wonder that beef prices often soar, especially during certain seasons.

Unfortunately, the rising demand for beef is not matched by the national supply. As a result, the government relies on imported cattle to meet national needs. We’re discussing beef here because it presents a great business opportunity. If you’re thinking about starting a cattle farming business or have just begun, you’re in the right place. Also, check out how to build an effective cattle pen.

The Opportunity in Cattle Farming and How to Get Started

Most cattle farmers in this business treat it as a side hustle rather than a full-time endeavor. Very few farmers commit to it seriously due to the long time it takes to see returns. Typically, farmers only raise 2-5 cows. This is very different from farms abroad, where they often implement intensive systems with large populations, sometimes reaching hundreds of cows. Adopting this approach could be highly beneficial, allowing you to help meet the local demand for beef.

Beef prices rarely drop significantly. This year alone, beef prices start at around IDR 120,000 per kilogram, and this figure is expected to rise, especially during festive seasons.

How to Start a Cattle Farming Business

While cattle farming can be lucrative, it’s not always easy. You must gather detailed information on effective cattle farming practices. Plenty of books, magazines, blogs, and experienced farmers offer tips and advice on raising beef cattle. Nowadays, finding information is easier than ever.

One of the most critical factors in cattle farming is feeding. It directly impacts the profit you can achieve. For imported cattle, weight gain can reach 15-18 kg per day. In Indonesia, achieving these numbers is challenging due to poor management practices, such as inadequate sanitation and improper feeding.

One valuable resource is the book Petunjuk Praktis Penggemukan Sapi (Practical Guide to Fattening Cattle). It provides detailed strategies for proper cattle care. The authors, Drh. Samsul Fikar and Dadi Ruhyati, draw on their extensive experience in cattle farming. The book covers everything from the basics of the beef cattle business to selecting the right cattle, feeding techniques, and managing cattle health issues. It even includes guidelines on harvesting and post-harvest management.

The book is comprehensive yet practical, offering insights into how to analyze the beef cattle business and achieve harvests in just four months.

So, there you have it—some essential information on how to start cattle farming. Make sure to understand the ins and outs of the industry, from vaccinations and feeding to pricing, finding customers, and scaling up your business. If you manage it well, there’s no reason you can’t succeed in this business.