What is the Difference Between Heifer and Cow?

The main difference between a heifer and a cow lies in their age and reproductive status. Here are the key differences:

• Age: Heifers are young female cattle that have not yet borne calves, while cows are mature female cattle that have given birth to at least one calf.
• Reproduction: Heifers have not reproduced, whereas cows have reproduced and given birth to calves.
• Appearance: Heifers have less prominent hips and thinner middles compared to cows, which have larger hips and thicker middles. Cows also have pronounced and elongated udders from rearing their young, while heifers' udders are harder to see and less prominent because they have not been used in raising calves.

Once a heifer has her first calf, she then becomes a cow. Cows are used for milk production and raising their young, while heifers are raised for beef or breeding purposes.

Comparative Table: Heifer vs Cow

Here is a table summarizing the differences between heifers and cows:

Heifers are young female cattle that have not yet borne calves, usually between 10 and 24 months old. They are slender and have a similar appearance to cows but lack mature characteristics such as prominent hips and thick middles. Heifers are used for breeding and can also be raised for beef. Once a heifer has a calf, she becomes a cow.

Cows are mature female bovines that have given birth to at least one calf. They have larger hips and thicker middles compared to bulls, giving them a more feminine appearance. Cows are used for dairy production and beef production.