Record registry no. NWR/2020/002
The world's shortest cow is Manikyam, owned by Ashkay N.V. (India), in Kerala, India. On this year of 2018 , she was officially measured at a height of 61.1 cm (24.07 in) from the hoof to the withers
Local Kerala veterinarian Dr E M Muhammed gave us the lowdown on this diminutive bovine and explained why the area produces such short cows.
"We think it may be to do with the unusual climatic conditions of our state. It is hot and particularly humid here, and we believe this has an effect on the height of our cattle. If Vechur cattle are taken elsewhere in the country, over time they increase in height. It’s only in Kerala that they maintain their dwarf stature. Really interesting!"
"Usually, our local cows are about 150 cm (4 ft 11 in) in height. Manikyam is a Vechur breed, well known for producing dwarf cows. Vechurs tend to grow to a maximum height of around 90 cm (2 ft 11 in)."
