How old for first heat?

[mistletoad]

We have two dexter cows - Tess is 3 yrs old and, we hope, bred, Velvet is almost a year old. Today Velvet went kind of nuts, racing around like a crazed thing and just being a pest to Tess (her mother) who did not seem to be amused by it! lol

So is Velvet old enough to be in heat? Obviously we don't want to breed her yet, but getting a handle on the dates would be very helpful.

[linn]

Yes, Velvet is definetly old enough to be in heat. Some breeds come into heat as early as six months old.

[mistletoad]

Thanks, I thought she must be, but DH looks at her as a baby and tried to convince me she couldn't be.

[Dexter_Cattle]

Hi Mistletoad,

Yes Dexters mature early, some very early. I have heard of a heifer settling at 5 months. That is not the norm and definately not recommended but possible non the less.

Hope that helps!
Dan

[copperhead46]

I have a 7 month old right now, that is in another pasture because she's in. It's easier for me to put her up than to try to keep the bull away from her.
P.J.