Aug 21, 2024
Not all cattle are cows! The term 'cow' specifically refers to a female that has given birth. Before her first calf, she's called a heifer. Male cattle are bulls if intact and steers if castrated. The distinction depends on age, sex, and reproductive status.
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Cows are ruminants with a four-chambered stomach, allowing them to efficiently digest grass and vegetation that many other animals can't. Their specialised digestive system helps break down tough plant material through a process of fermentation and regurgitation.
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Cows have an exceptional sense of smell, detecting odours from up to 10 kilometres away! This ability helps them navigate social bonds and respond to environmental threats. They can even sense stress hormones in the urine of other cows, helping them avoid danger.
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Cows have nearly 360-degree vision thanks to their eyes being on both sides of their heads—double the field of vision humans have! This panoramic view allows cows to stay aware of their surroundings even when grazing, ensuring they can detect potential threats from all angles.
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Each cow has a distinct personality, much like humans. Traits such as boldness, curiosity, and sociability vary among them. Some cows are adventurous and sociable, eager to explore their surroundings, while others are more timid and prefer to stay within their comfort zone.
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Cows are highly intelligent, understanding cause-effect relationships and solving complex problems for rewards like food or a brush. Studies show they enjoy these challenges, with serotonin release indicating excitement and pleasure when they successfully figure out a solution.
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Cows have excellent spatial memory, remembering locations of water, shelter, and the faces of their herd mates. They can recall these details over time, so it’s wise to be kind when interacting with them—cows will remember your face and how you treated them.
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Cows experience a range of emotions, including joy, fear, and anxiety. Studies show they rely on herd mates for emotional support, with less stress when in physical contact or simply seeing other cows during human interactions.
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Cows are highly social and form lifelong friendships within their herd. Separation from their friends or herd causes them stress. They help each other, learn together, and even groom one another to stay clean and comfortable.
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Cows enjoy seeking pleasure through play, including galloping, bucking, and chasing balls. They prance and jump for fun, and these activities help them develop essential social skills for interacting with their herd mates.
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