When people think of cows, they often think of milk, beef, or barnyard scenes—but rarely do they consider the emotional depth, intelligence, and unique personalities behind those big brown eyes. At Farmfari, we’ve had the honour of getting to know cows as individuals—each with their own quirks, friendships, and stories.
If you’ve ever wondered “Are cows intelligent?” or “Do cows have feelings?”—this blog is for you.
Why Cows Are More Than Livestock
Cows are deeply social and emotionally intelligent animals. In fact, researchers from The University of Sydney have found that cows form social bonds and experience a range of emotions including excitement, fear, and affection.
At Farmfari, our rescued cows show us this every day:
- Cows have best friends: They often form long-term bonds with specific herd mates.
- They hold grudges (and forgive): If wronged or mistreated, they remember. But they also learn to trust again with gentle care.
- They love affection: Many of our cows actively seek out pats, scratches, and even a good brush.
Meet some of our rescued cows by booking one of our feel good sessions.
Common Questions About Cow Intelligence
Q: Are cows smarter than we think?
A: Yes. Studies show cows can remember faces, navigate mazes, and even show signs of optimism and pessimism—just like humans and pigs.
Q: Do cows have individual personalities?
A: Absolutely! At Farmfari, no two cows are the same. Some are shy and gentle; others are bold and inquisitive.
Q: How can I support better treatment for cows in Australia?
A: Choose plant-based products, support sanctuaries, and educate others about animal welfare.
Learn more about ethical treatment and farming practices in Australia via Animals Australia.
Real Life: The Story of Wally
Wally is a beautiful boy, inside and out. He is gentle in nature, has a unique sense of fun, and truly loves to interact with humans. When he and his brothers arrived at Farmfari and leapt off the truck, Wally was the first to stop running, turn around, and come back toward us for a friendly hello.
While his brothers explored cautiously, Wally made it clear he was ready to connect. He adores a massage—especially when his brothers aren’t watching! His sweet and trusting personality reminds us daily how lucky we are to know these animals not as commodities, but as companions.
Want to support cows like Wally? Visit our Donate Page.
“Guess the Myth!”
Test your cow compassion IQ with these common myths. Can you spot which one’s false?
Which of the following is NOT true about cows?
A) Cows have best friends
B) Cows can’t feel pain like humans do
C) Cows enjoy being brushed
D) Cows can hold grudges
Scroll down for the answer…
🟢 Answer: B – That’s the myth!
Cows absolutely feel pain, both physically and emotionally. They’re sentient beings with nervous systems similar to ours. This myth has been used to justify mistreatment, but it’s simply not true.
Highly Social Animals
Cows are intelligent, loving, and highly social animals that deserve to be seen for more than their utility. At Farmfari, we advocate for a world where cows are valued for who they are—not just what they produce.
Share this blog with friends to help change perceptions and encourage a kinder, more compassionate world.
