Cattle (Bos taurus) are large, domesticated, bovid ungulates widely kept as livestock. They are prominent modern members of the subfamily Bovinae and the most widespread species of the genus Bos. Mature female cattle are called cows, immature females are called heifers, mature intact males are called bulls, castrated males are called steers or oxen, and young animals of either sex are called ...

Understanding the Context

Cattle are domesticated bovine farm animals that are raised for their meat, milk, or hides or for draft purposes. The animals most often included under the term are the Western or European domesticated cattle as well as the Indian and African domesticated cattle. Learn what cattle are, the main types of cattle, common beef and dairy breeds, and how cattle are used in modern livestock farming. With so many breeds available, how do you choose which is best for you?

Key Insights

Here are common beef cattle breeds. Cattle were originally identified by Carolus Linnaeus as three separate species. These were Bos taurus, the European cattle, including similar types from Africa and Asia; Bos indicus, the Zebu or humped cattle found in India; and the extinct Bos primigenius, the aurochs. The aurochs are considered ancestral to both Zebu and European cattle. Discover 35 fun facts about cows!

Final Thoughts

Kid-friendly cow facts, funny myths, and real farm insights from a 5th-generation cattle farm. Learn more about the various cattle breeds in a list organized alphabetically. Cattle are large domesticated animals raised mainly for food production, including beef and milk, as well as for leather and other by-products. These animals belong to the Bovidae family, and their domestication dates back over 10,000 years. Cattle have played a significant role in agriculture, supporting human societies through food production, labor, and other resources. In the modern world ...