What is the average life expectancy of a cow?

The average life expectancy of a cow is typically around 10 to 15 years under ideal farming and living conditions, but commercially, many cows are culled for various reasons, such as age or productivity, before reaching that age. In less optimal environments or intensive farming operations, cows may have shorter lives.

Considering the provided choices, the average life expectancy commonly cited is higher than 5 years. Therefore, while 5 years is lower than typical figures, it could reflect a certain commercial reality where cows may be culled sooner for beef production. However, it does not represent the full life expectancy potential of a cow, which is generally longer, aligning better with the upper options.

In the context of beef cattle specifically, they often reach market weight before they reach their maximum lifespan. Hence, students should recognize that while some cows may only live 5 years due to farming practices, their natural lifespan can be significantly longer. Understanding these nuances is essential for grasping the realities of cattle management and lifespan considerations in animal husbandry.