How much land do I need to take care of a cow?

Question

I want to have a milk cow.

How much space does she need in order to live happily, what is her diet, and what other care does she need?

Answer 1

if you are in the UK.

You need to register with DEFRA via the RPA to keep a cow.

Cows are herd animals getting a couple would be best not just keeping one.

Space wise an acre would do per animal.

They eat grass, in winter most farmers bring cows in to rest the ground and to stop poaching.  You can feed her hay, haylage or silage whilst indoors or to supliment her outdoors.  You can also feed a complementary feed such as cow nuts if you think she needs it.  A general mineral block will also help, she will l**k this as and when she needs to.

They drink water.

Keep an eye on her feet, they may require occassional trimming.  She will also need regular worming, and be part of the national TB testing programme.

You seem to be talking about the old fashioned House Cow which would suckle a calf and also provide milk for the house.  Remember your cow needs to have a calf to produce milk.