Cows produce more milk when they’re happy

Researchers at Newcastle University have found that the happier a cow is the more milk it produces. Cows that are given names and are treated with a more personal touch can produce up to 500 more pints of milk a year.

The study, which involved 516 farms from all over the UK, found that farmers that named their cows gained substantially more milk than those who did not name their cattle. The study also found that treating cows as individuals also help increased milk production.

Dr Catherine Douglas, who led the research for the School of Agriculture, Food and Rural Development at the university said: “Just as people respond better to the personal touch, cows also feel happier and more relaxed if they are given a bit more one-to-one attention.”

Later adding that, “Placing more importance on knowing the individual animals and calling them by name can, at no extra cost to the farmer, also significantly increase milk production.”