FARM ANIMALS. 413 



CATTLE. 



These are divided into three classes ; namely, 

 beef cattle, dairy cattle and dual-purpose cattle. 



Beef-Cattle are used for the production of 

 meat almost entirely. 



Dairy-Cattle are kept for the milk which they 

 are capable of producing. 



Dual-Purpose Cattle are used where both 

 beef and milk are desired, but neither as a 

 special product. To this class belongs the 

 great majority of cows in America. 



I. Beef-Cattle 



ordinarily attain greater weight than those of 

 any other class, ranging in weight from 1,400 to 

 2,500 pounds, varying according to breed and 

 sex. They should be broad, deep and of 

 medium length, short-legged and compact. The 

 top line (shoulders to tail-head) and under line 

 (brisket to twist) should be as nearly straight as 

 possible. The hair, skin, and bone should be 

 of good texture to show quality. A mellow, 

 elastic skin of medium thickness, underlaid by 

 firm, smooth and thick flesh, is termed good 

 "handling quality." The shoulders, ribs, back, 

 loin, rump and hind-quarters should all be 

 covered with smooth, firm and thick flesh. 

 Constitution is indicated by deep broad chest, 

 large muzzle, clear bright eye and general 

 thrifty appearance. A mild and contented 



