The US is urging people not to cuddle cows. Here’s why

Amid the tranquil landscapes of America’s farms, a wellness trend has emerged: cow cuddling.

The popular recreational activity involves snuggling up with heifers for an hour or so and claims to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and foster a sense of connection with nature and animals.

However, cuddles with cattle could be in jeopardy after a cow-to-human transmission of bird flu was confirmed in Texas , prompting the health department to advise against the beloved pastime.

As US authorities urge caution amid confirmed bird flu in dairy herds in nine states, the future of agritourism hangs in the balance.

‘Not a good time to cuddle cows’

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The recent spread of the H5N1 virus has raised concerns about its impact on both livestock and humans.

Recently, the US Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed cases of bird flu in dairy herds across nine states, prompting swift advisory from state and federal agricultural departments.

“Regardless of the size of operation, all dairy producers should re-double biosecurity efforts and be vigilant about monitoring for and controlling disease in their herds,” a spokesperson for USDA’s animal and plant health inspection service said in a statement.

Tim Boring, director of Michigan agriculture and rural development, emphasised the importance of prioritising animal and human health after one dairy herd in the state tested positive.

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“From a human-to-animal health standpoint, now is not a good time to cuddle cows. This is to protect the cows and people,” he told Reuters.

Following the case, Boring signed an emergency response order that called for improved sanitation measures at the dairy and commercial poultry farms. While the emergency response order does not explicitly prohibit cow-cuddling, the official is not recommending it.

The decision is backed by scientists who have indicated that the outbreak may be more widespread, with the presence of the virus detected in approximately 20 per cent of milk samples from the nation’s over 26,000 licensed dairy farms.

Though government officials say that the risk of human transmission is low, increased restrictions have increased troubles from small farmers who see people’s growing interest in agro-tourism activities as a financial prospect.

The impact on small farmers

Agro-tourism activities are on the rise in the US. From yoga classes with baby goats to corn mazes and you-pick sunflower fields and feeding baby piglets, these recreational activities have become an “economic boon” for small farm owners.

As per data from the USDA, more than 28,600 farms in 2022, earned $1.26 billion (over Rs. 105 crore) in income from agro-tourism, 32 per cent more than five years earlier.

“Agritourism has become a significant economic boon for small farmers who have carved out a niche for themselves,” Curt Covington, senior director of Institution Credit at Ag America Lending told Reuters.

One such case from farms of Illinois is of Luz and her husband Dan Klotz for whom such visitors have become key to covering the feed bills and keeping their small farm running.

An hour of cow cuddling sessions, which costs $75 (Rs 6,260) on their farm is enough to purchase a bale of hay and keep their small herd fed for a week. “It helps a lot,” Dan Klotz told Reuters.

While many farm owners ensure that their farms are open to the public and have safety measures in place, it remains to be seen how the bird flu, which the CDC says “poses pandemic potential” affects their businesses.

With inputs from agencies