Buffalo farming emphasizes breed selection and scientific feeding management

Buffalo farming is the livestock production activity centered on water buffalo, covering different directions such as draft use, dairy use and meat use. Water buffalo have a sturdy build and a gentle temperament, with a strong ability to tolerate coarse feed. Historically they have long taken on farm work such as paddy field cultivation, and they are very commonly raised in the rice-producing areas of southern China.

Compared with cattle, water buffalo have an obvious habit of liking water. Their skin is thick and their hair is sparse, and their sweat glands are underdeveloped, so in hot weather they need to soak in or be sprayed with water to help dissipate heat. Therefore, the farming site should preferably be close to a clean water source, or a shallow pool should be set up for the animals to soak in, while the cowshed needs good ventilation, achieving heat protection in summer and warmth in winter.

China is rich in local water buffalo resources, and various regions have developed local groups adapted to the local environment. There are also introduced dairy-type breeds such as the Murrah buffalo, whose milk production performance is more outstanding. Daily feeding is mainly based on roughage such as green grass and rice straw, with appropriate supplements of concentrate depending on the purpose and growth stage, along with good management work such as regular deworming, hoof trimming and vaccination.

The milk fat percentage and protein content of water buffalo milk are higher than those of ordinary cow milk, making it suitable for processing dairy products such as cheese. Dairy water buffalo farming has received more attention in recent years. With the spread of agricultural mechanization, the demand for draft use has gradually decreased, and the farming direction is shifting to dual-purpose dairy and meat use. Before entering the industry, beginners should first understand the local market conditions and relevant policies, and make good plans for the site and funds.