It’s time for your first herd. You’ve been planning for this stage for a while, but you’ve still got quite a few choices to make.
One of the most significant choices is how you’re going to handle your cattle.
Finding the right cattle handling systems for small herds ensures you’ll save time, stay safe, and come in under budget.
Diving into a bit of research now, helps you set yourself and your farm up for success as you move into dairy or beef production.
What is a cattle handling system used for?
Before we dive in, let’s ensure we’re on the same page.
A cattle handling system is a setup of alleys, gates, panels, and chutes designed to move, sort, and work cattle efficiently and safely, reducing stress for both the animals and ranchers.
However, your cattle handling system will be more than just panels and gates. It’s an essential piece of strategy and equipment you’ll use to simplify daily tasks.
And, choosing the best foundation now means your herd and operation can easily grow in the future.
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Key Benefits of a Cattle Handling Systems for Small Herds
If you’ve been wondering if cattle handling systems were only for larger operations, you’re not alone.
New cattle ranchers are often left wondering whether or not they need cattle chutes and alleys or, is a field and a fence enough to get by.
The answer is, yes. You likely can get by with only a field and a fence for a while.
However, there are some key benefits to consider that will help you decide if your herd, and farm, are ready to grow.
1. Save Time to Focus on What Matters
Sorting and moving cattle can eat up time. The one thing farmers have little of. This is especially true if you’re relying on makeshift pens or rounding up cattle from the other end of the field.
Marsha, one of our customers, once spent 11 hours chasing a sick cow when she first started her herd.
While we're hoping you don't have to spend a day running down one cow, the reality is that it often takes more time than you expect to manage them.
Watch Marsha tell her story here:
A well-designed cattle handling system streamlines the process, allowing you to spend less time chasing cows. Devote more time focusing on production goals like increasing herd size or improving output.
2. Safer Handling for You and Your Herd
Safety is a priority—especially true if you have children and a growing family that helps you on the farm.
Cattle systems guide animals calmly and efficiently through alleys, gates, and chutes, reducing the risk of injuries for both you and your herd.
Get the job done with less stress and more confidence.
3. Efficiency That Pays Off
As you transition to production, every minute and dollar counts. Investing in a reliable cattle handling system now ensures smoother operations as your herd grows.
Avoid the frustrations and wasted time of outdated or improvised setups.
Key Components of a Starter Cattle Handling System
For first-time buyers, a starter cattle handling system doesn’t need to be complex or overwhelming.
The right setup includes the essential components that simplify moving and sorting cattle while being easy to use and manage. Here’s what to look for:
1. Cattle Alleys for Single-File Movement
Cattle alleys are the backbone of any handling system. They guide your cattle into a single-file line, ensuring calm and controlled movement through the system.
By keeping cattle focused and moving in one direction, alleys reduce stress and make sorting, vaccinations, and health checks smoother and more efficient.
Tip: For small herds, start with a smaller system that can be easily added on to as your herd grows. We use panel systems that allow for easy growth alongside your operation.
2. Gates for Separating Cattle
Your system will have a variety of gate options.
Alley gates are optional, and used to control the flow down the alley towards the chute or head gate.
Speaking of head gates, this is the most basic gate at the end of your alley. Generally used for safely restraining you cattle for vet and herd maintenance needs.
Bow gates are the larger gates that you run your herd through.
Smaller gates are used to provide easy access and quick escape for handlers. Our smaller gates come in a panel/gate combo.
3. Heavy-Duty Panels That Are Manageable for Small Farms
Heavy-duty panels form the structure of our cattle systems, creating sturdy barriers that hold up to cattle pressure.
Our cattle system kits include panels and clamps that are strong enough to handle livestock but manageable for easy installation and relocation if needed.
Many of our customers have set up, moved, or adjusted the system as needed. Which is an excellent option as your operation grows. If you decide a different location is a better fit, you can easily relocate your system without having to start fresh.
You don’t need an advanced setup to get started—a smart, basic system will make a huge difference. Panels, gates, and alleys are all you need to transform how you manage your herd.
Choose the Right Cattle System for Your Herd
Choosing a cattle handling system for your first herd doesn’t have to be overly complex.
Whether you’re planning to stay small or planning for growth, the right setup now will keep you on track.
Here’s what to consider:
1. How big is your herd?
Start with herd size—it’s the most significant factor.
Just starting out? Our smallest kit for 8-10 head are the way to go for simple and budget-friendly.
Ensure you're accounting for any calving that you're planning, as your herd can increase in size quickly in the spring.
Thinking bigger? We’ve got you covered with kits for up to 70-80 head—and everything in between.
Not seeing the perfect fit for your operation? No problem. We can build a custom kit for you.
2. How hard is it to set up?
Let’s be honest—no one wants to spend days setting up their new cattle handling system. That’s why our systems are simple and quick to set up.
You don’t need a team (or a lot of experience) to get started. From the first panel to the last gate you’ll be up and running in no time.
In fact, Brett purchased our 8-10 cattle working system and shared:
“My wife and I set it up in just a couple of hours.”
While we have had customers that set it up themselves, we do recommend having at least one helper for safety.
3. Will it last?
Durability matters. You need a system that can handle working cattle every day—without breaking.
Our cattle systems are made from rugged, heavy-duty steel panels that can withstand your herd’s abuse. And they’re portable if you need to move or expand later on.
4. Do you need a cow chute?
It’s worth noting that our cattle handling systems don’t automatically come with a squeeze chute or a head gate.
Whether or not you need a squeeze chute for your first system depends on your herd size and production goals.
Your cow chute options will range from a simple front headgate operation to a longer front and rear operation.
Take a look at our optional squeeze chutes.
Explore Cattle Handling Systems Today
Ready to take the next step for your herd? Whether you’re starting small or planning for growth, the right cattle handling system makes all the difference.
From our kits for herds of 8-10 to custom setups for larger operations, we’re here to help. Shop cattle handling systems now.