How to Get a Horse Familiar With Cattle

A horse is commonly used to herd cattle. Although there are times when a horse that is not used to being around cattle can become spooked, causing the cattle to scatter. It is important that you socialize a horse with cattle as soon as possible so that it can get used to their presence.

1. Place the horse into a pen that is near the area where the cattle is located. Allow the horse to observe the cattle. Take note of the horse’s reaction to see if it is intrigued by the cattle or seems apprehensive of the presence of the cattle. 


2. Continue this process for 5-7 days to allow the horse to adjust to the presence of the cattle. Play a recording of the noises that the cattle make in order to help the horse adjust to the sounds on the cattle when it is brought closer to them; this will help prevent the horse from becoming spooked.


3. Place a rope harness onto the horse so that you can easily guide it.


4. Walk the horse on the outside of the area where the cattle is located, allowing the horse to come closer to the cattle than it was in the pen.


5. Repeat this process for 5-7 days to allow the horse to adjust to being closer to the cattle.


6. Bring the horse closer to the cattle more and more each day. Allow the horse to become accustomed to the noise that the herd makes before moving it closer to the herd.


7. Work on basic commands during the process such as turning and stopping so that you can control the horse if it does become spooked by the cattle.


8. Begin riding the horse in the pen with the cattle when you feel it is ready. Do not push the horse; if it seems reluctant you should continue to slowly accustom the horse to the cattle.


9. Place the horse into the pen with the cattle once it is comfortable being ridden in a pen with cattle. Be sure to watch carefully that the horse does not become spooked for the first week or two.