Vechur Cow
വേച്ചൂർ
Kerala's tiny medicinal-milk cow.
Native tract: Vechur, Vaikom; spread across Kottayam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam
Milk per day (peak)
2–3 L
Milk per lactation (~300 days)
400–700 L
Milk fat
5.0–7.0%
Adult weight
90–130 kg
Vechur is critical
Every Vechur cow saved is a meaningful step in protecting this heritage line. Consider adopting one or supporting a verified gaushala in Kerala.
Distinctive features
Coat: Light red, black, white, or fawn.
- Dwarf — among the smallest cow breeds in the world
- Adults stand 80–95 cm at shoulder
- Short forward-curving horns
- Petite udder, well-set
Temperament & utility
- Smallest known milk-producing breed
- Milk traditionally considered medicinal in Ayurveda
- A2, high-fat
- Heat- and humidity-tolerant
History & lineage
Vechur is named after Vechur village in Kottayam. By 1989 the population had fallen below 100, leading the Kerala Agricultural University to launch a recovery programme led by Sosamma Iype. The programme is considered a model for indigenous breed conservation; population has recovered to a few thousand.
Why Vechur matters
Vechur was minutes away from extinction. Its survival proves that determined community-led conservation works. Adopting a Vechur cow supports an active conservation programme.
Frequently asked
How small is a Vechur cow?
Adult Vechur cows stand 80–95 cm and weigh 90–130 kg — making them one of the smallest cow breeds in the world.
What is special about Vechur milk?
It is high in fat (5–7%), is A2, and contains smaller fat globules than most cow milk — features prized in Ayurveda as medicinal.