XIX. 



368 FARMING FOR LADIES, [chap. 



the next and following years, a two and 

 three year old " heifer," until she is four 

 years old, when she becomes a " cow ;" after 

 which her age may be generally known, until 

 she is six or seven years old, by the rings or 

 scores upon her horns, one of which is formed 

 at the root when she is four years old, and 

 another every year afterwards. 



The more certain mode of ascertaining the 

 age, is, however, by an inspection of the teeth, 

 as we are always subject to imposition by 

 false marks being made on the horns, or 

 those of nature being filed off,; and even if this 

 be not practised, the rings become indistinct 

 when the cow is old. Oxen have no teeth 

 in the front of the upper jaw. The teeth of 

 the calf are shed at two years old, but re- 

 placed, two at a time, until they are five years 

 of age, and at six, they may be considered 

 quite " full-mouthed." The grinders are a 

 sure indication of age, but they are rather 

 difficult to be got at, and we are sure that 

 neither would ladies inspect the teeth if they 

 could, nor would they read a prolix account 

 of their growth ; therefore, should any doubt 

 arise respecting the animal's age, the better 



