Buying and Selling Dairy Cows in Kenya: A Farmer-to-Farmer Guide
If you’ve ever tried to buy a dairy cow in Kenya, you probably know how frustrating it can be.
You hear from a friend that someone is selling a good Friesian. When you finally find the cow, there’s a broker involved. The price is higher than expected, and sometimes you’re not even sure about the cow’s real milk production.
I’ve seen many farmers go through this. Some end up buying cows that don’t produce as promised. Others struggle to find serious buyers when they want to sell.
That’s why livestock marketplaces like DairyVerse are changing things. They make it easier for farmers to connect directly, share information openly, and make better decisions.
But whether you’re buying or selling, there are a few important things every farmer should know.
Popular Dairy Cow Breeds in Kenya
- Friesian Cow (Holstein Friesian)
The Friesian is the most popular dairy breed in Kenya and is known for its very high milk production. It is easily recognised by its black and white colour.
Key features:
- Average milk production: 25–30 litres per day
- Colour: Black and white
- Body size: Large (600–700 kg mature weight)
- Temperament: Calm and easy to manage
Friesians are ideal for farmers who want maximum milk production. However, they require good feeding, proper housing, and good management to perform well.
Best for: Commercial dairy farmers and zero-grazing systems.
2. Ayrshire Cow
Ayrshire cows are very popular among Kenyan farmers because they are hardy and easier to manage than Friesians.
Key features:
- Average milk production: 15–25 litres per day
- Colour: Brown and white
- Body size: Medium
- Strong and adaptable to different climates
They are efficient grazers and perform well even in areas with moderate feeding.
Best for: Small-scale and medium-scale farmers
3. Jersey Cow
The Jersey cow is one of the best dairy breeds for Kenyan farmers, especially those who want a productive cow that is easier and cheaper to maintain.
Key Characteristics
- Usually light brown, fawn, or cream in colour
- Smaller body size compared to Friesians
- Black nose with a light ring around it
- Calm and friendly temperament
- Average weight: 360–450 kg
Jerseys originated from the Isle of Jersey and are now kept all over the world because of their excellent milk quality.
4.Guernsey Cow
Guernsey cows produce high-quality milk known for its rich cream content.
Key features:
- Average milk production: 15–20 litres per day
- Colour: Brown and white
- Milk quality: High butterfat
They are calm and easy to manage.
Best for: Farmers focusing on milk quality
What I Always Tell Farmers to Check Before Buying
Buying a dairy cow is an investment. You don’t want surprises later.
Here are the key things to look at:
1. Milk Production (This is the main reason you are buying the cow)
Milk production is what gives you income, so don’t guess — confirm.
Ask the seller clearly:
- How many litres does she produce per day?
- How many times is she milked per day? (Usually twice)
A cow milked twice daily may produce, for example, 12 litres in the morning and 8 litres in the evening.
Important tip:
If possible, visit during milking time and see it yourself. This is the best way to confirm the truth.
Also ask:
- Is she currently in peak production or late lactation?
- When did she give birth?
Milk production reduces as lactation progresses.
2. Age and Calving History
A cow’s productivity depends heavily on her age and number of calvings.
The best cows are usually between: 2nd and 5th calving
Ask:
- How many times has she calved?
- When was her last calving date?
- Has she had any calving problems?
Avoid:
- Very old cows (more than 7 calvings)
- Very young cows without production history
Older cows produce less milk and may have fertility problems.
3. Health Condition
A sick cow will cost you money in treatment and produce less milk.
A healthy cow should have:
Bright, clear eyes
Not dull or watery
Smooth, shiny skin and coat
This shows good nutrition
Good body condition
Not too thin and not too fat
Normal walking
No limping or difficulty walking
Also check:
- No coughing
- No nasal discharge
- No diarrhoea
Ask the seller:
- Is she vaccinated?
- Is she dewormed?
- Has she been treated for any diseases recently?
If possible, ask for veterinary records.
4. The Udder
The udder is one of the most important parts to check.
A good udder should be:
Soft, not hard
Hardness may indicate mastitis (a serious udder infection)
No wounds or injuries
Wounds can cause infection
Well balanced
Not hanging too low
Four normal teats
Check that milk comes out from all teats
You can even try milking a little to confirm milk flow.
Avoid cows with:
- Swollen udder
- Painful udder
- Injured teats
These problems reduce milk production.
5. Body Structure and Physical Appearance
A good dairy cow should look like a dairy cow — not like a beef cow.
Look for:
- Long body
- Deep stomach
- Strong legs
- Wide hips
These features support high milk production.
Avoid cows with:
- Weak legs
- Very thin body
- Physical deformities
6. Temperament (Very important but often ignored)
A calm cow is easier to manage and milk.
Avoid cows that are:
- Aggressive
- Kicking during milking
- Very nervous
Such cows can injure you and make milking difficult.
7. Feeding History
Ask:
- What does the cow eat daily?
- How much feed does she consume?
This helps you prepare and avoid sudden changes that reduce milk.
If You’re Selling a Cow, Here’s What Buyers Look For
Many farmers struggle to sell their cows because they don’t provide enough information. Serious buyers want clear details before they contact you. When your listing is complete and honest, you sell faster and attract better offers.
Here’s what you must include:
1. Clear Photos (Very Important)
Photos are the first thing buyers check. Take clear photos in good lighting and show:
- Side view – shows body condition and size
- Udder – buyers check milk potential and health
- Full body – confirms breed and overall health
Clean the cow before taking photos if possible. Avoid blurry or dark photos.
2. Accurate Milk Production
Always state the correct milk production.
Include:
- Litres per day (example: 18 litres per day)
- How many times milked (usually twice daily)
- When she last calved
Honesty builds trust and attracts serious buyers.
3. Age and Calving History
Buyers want cows in their productive stage.
Include:
- Number of calvings (example: 2nd or 3rd calver)
- Last calving date
- Pregnancy status if pregnant
Cows between 2nd and 5th calving are most preferred.
4. Location
Always mention your County and nearest town.
Example:
- Nyandarua – Ol Kalou
- Nakuru – Njoro
- Nyeri – Karatina
Location helps buyers plan transport.
5. Price
Always state your price clearly.
Example:
Price: KSh 120,000
Listings with prices attract more serious buyers and sell faster.
Why Online Marketplaces Are Helping Kenyan Farmers
In the past, farmers depended heavily on brokers.
Today, online marketplaces allow farmers to:
- Reach more buyers
- Compare cows easily
- Sell faster
- Get fair prices
It also builds trust because information is shared openly.
