Highland Cattle Market

Learn About Highland Cattle

Everything a first-time buyer or curious owner should know about the breed, straight from the source material. No marketing fluff.

History

From the Scottish Highlands and Outer Hebrides to one of the oldest herdbooks in the world.

Traits & Colors

The double coat, horns in both sexes, and the six recognized Highland colors.

Temperament

Genuinely calm and people-oriented, with honest caveats about handling livestock, not pets.

Care & Husbandry

Foraging, shelter, hooves, deworming, breeding age, and gestation basics.

Registries Explained

AHCA vs. HHCA vs. Highland Cattle Society, and what "mini Highland" really means.

Beef & Uses

Heritage beef, hides, and the growing role of Highlands in agritourism.

Cost Guide

2026 U.S. price ranges by age, sex, and registry status.

FAQ

Quick answers to the questions we hear most from first-time buyers.

Buying with confidence

Every listing on Highland Cattle Market follows the same standards before it goes live.

Registry papers checked

We confirm registration and pedigree documentation before any animal goes live on the site.

Health & genetics disclosed

Known health records and genetic considerations, including frame-size testing status, are stated up front.

Independent vet check encouraged

We recommend every buyer arrange their own pre-purchase veterinary check before finalizing a sale.

Signed bill of sale

Every transaction includes a signed bill of sale documenting the animal, price, and terms.

Documentation you should expect

Depending on the animal and where it's going, a Highland cattle sale typically involves some combination of the following. Ask your seller which ones apply to your purchase.

  • Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (CVI), also called a health certificate, issued by an accredited veterinarian for animals crossing state lines.
  • Registry transfer paperwork for the animal's registry (AHCA, HHCA, or Highland Cattle Society), where applicable.
  • A signed bill of sale documenting the animal, agreed price, and terms.
  • State brand inspection certificate, where the animal's home state requires one before sale or transport.
  • For international imports only: an import permit and entry health certificate. Most domestic sales do not require this.