By Umar Nsubuga
Deborah Nabatanzi, a resident of Kangave village in Luwero district, recently purchased a Friesian cow and sought advice on how to ensure its rapid growth.
She believes the cow consumes a lot of feed and wants it to grow quickly so she can start earning from it.
Improving the growth rate of cattle is a priority for many farmers seeking to maximise productivity and profitability.
Choose the right breed
According to Ruta Ngambwa, a dairy farmer, selecting the right breed is the foundation for raising fast-growing cattle.
“Breeds like Friesians, Borans, and crossbreeds that are well-adapted to the local climate and conditions are ideal,” says Ngambwa.
“Your choice of breed should align with your farming goals. Friesians are excellent for milk production, while Borans are known for their hardiness and meat quality.”
Prioritise water and hygiene
Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor, explains the importance of water and hygiene in cattle management, as they play a key role in preventing diseases.
“Maintain a clean environment for your cattle. Regularly clean feeding and watering equipment, and ensure the cowshed is dry and free from waste,” he explains.
He adds that fresh, clean water should always be available.
“Cattle consume a lot of water daily, and dehydration can severely affect growth.”
Provide a balanced diet
Dr. David Kamukama, a cattle farmer in Nakasongola, highlights the importance of a balanced diet in promoting faster growth.
“Cattle need a diet rich in energy, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Farmers should provide high-quality feeds such as hay, silage, and concentrates,” he advises.
Dr. Kamukama also recommends incorporating supplements like molasses and mineral blocks to boost nutrient intake and improve growth rates.

For farmers with limited access to commercial feeds, he suggests mixing locally available ingredients.
“You can use maize bran, cottonseed cake, and soybean meal to create a balanced ration,” he explains.
Vaccinations and disease prevention
Vaccinations and routine check-ups are crucial for maintaining cattle health, which directly impacts growth.
Mubiru stresses the importance of following a vaccination schedule to protect against diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease, brucellosis, and black quarter.
“Healthy animals grow faster. Invest in disease prevention rather than waiting to treat infections,” he advises.
Dr. Kamukama adds that regular deworming is essential.
“Internal parasites reduce feed efficiency, slowing down growth. Deworm your cattle regularly as recommended by a veterinarian.”
Proper housing and stress management
Ngambwa points out that stress can negatively affect cattle growth.
“A stress-free environment helps cattle gain weight faster. Provide proper housing with adequate space, ventilation, and shade,” he advises.
He also recommends separating aggressive animals from the herd to prevent injuries and reduce competition during feeding.
Early weaning and calf management
For young cattle, early weaning and proper calf management lay the foundation for faster growth.
Mubiru explains that calves should receive colostrum within the first few hours after birth to boost immunity.
“Afterward, introduce them to high-quality calf starter feeds and clean water to support their development,” he says.