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Cattle breeding is a sector that involves many and, above all, varied daily activities. Animal farming is perhaps even more complex than “just” farming, which makes it an extremely demanding and strenuous activity.
This is where tractor use becomes very effective and useful in reducing physical effort, improving handling and increasing efficiency. In fact, there are a number of processes in which animals are not necessarily involved, but which are nevertheless important because they have direct effects on the welfare of animals and on the products derived from them (meat, dairy products, etc…).
Let’s examine the main cattle farming operations that can be performed with a tractor and explore which McCormick model is most suitable for your needs.
Tractors: useful not only in the fields.
Even though the activities in the fields (related to the crops) are not directly related to animals, they are essential to the operation of a livestock farm. As a result, the tractor proves to be an excellent ally in activities such as preparing the soil by ploughing, tillage and making the field ready for seeding forage crops (alfalfa, maize, etc.). Furthermore, seeding and irrigation are important operations that are made easier and more effective with a high-performance tractor.
Forage management is a crucial task. Hay harvesting and transport are much faster and more precise thanks to the various tools that can be installed on a tractor (as discussed in more details in this article).
Meanwhile, quality machines are widely used in cattle farms for operations that directly affect the animals. Feed distribution is essential to ensure proper livestock feeding. This becomes easier with tractors equipped with mixer wagons, which mix and distribute feed evenly.
Moreover, manure handling becomes an intensive activity, especially on a large cattle farm. Thanks to both tractors featuring a loader and manure spreaders, shed cleaning and organic waste handling are carried out with precision. This ensures a clean and healthy environment for the animals. As soon as manure is collected, it is used as a fertiliser in the fields, which is again spread by tractors.
Essentially, there are so many operations on a livestock farm for which the help of a tractor becomes essential. But what is the best machine for these tasks? There are several models available and McCormick always has the right answer.
Simplify livestock farm operations with McCormick X6.4 P6-Drive.
At McCormick, when we think of multi-utility operations, we think of the X6.4 P6-Drive. This machine (tractor of the year 2023 in the Best Utility category) is the perfect ally to carry out the wide range of tasks associated with cattle farming.
We developed this model with particular attention to the design and ergonomics of the internal controls. These include the SmartPilot Plus joystick, which allows you to control the 40+40 speed robotised gearbox, the front and rear power hitches and the electro-hydraulic spool valves. Thanks to the High Vision Cab, it is also possible to use the M40 front loader to pick up and move forage more conveniently and efficiently. Furthermore, this mechanically suspended cab (combined with the suspended front axle with independent arms), improves working conditions both in the field and in road transport. Finally, McCormick’s seamless integration of digital solutions ensures full connectivity on the farm and fleet management side, enabling all the benefits of Agriculture 4.0.
X6.4 P6-Drive is the perfect tractor for those looking for versatility, performance and comfort in one machine.