Profitability and Viability of Cattle Fattening for Small Farm Households.

Abstract

The main objective of this study is to assess a profitability and viability of cattle fattening for small farmers through the on-farm trials conducted in the two selected villages in Nakornpathom province. The study results showed the significant contribution of cattle fattening operation as supplemental income source. On the average, the net incomes generated by the fattening of a pair of younger steers and a pair of older steers were 6,652 and 7,896 baht per family, respectively. In addition, introduction of cattle fattening scheme was able to increase the employment for the farm household members, especially the underemployed family members like housewife and old persons. The feasibility and success of the beef cattle fattening for small farmers was dependent on that there had to be an agency or organization to assist and supervise the farmers in such management as acquiring investment fund, calves to be fattened, the concentrate for fattening as well as marketing services. This means that a development of farmers’ organization should be established in order to provide assistant needs and strengthen their group management.