It a hard work to produce good fat.Cows are not raised only for being killed,cows in Japan live a king's (emperor's)life.They are fed high quality grains and each farmer has their own mixture and secret ingredients,such as soybeans and okara( a byproduct of making tofu). Water is very important for the cattle diet,local mineral water is often used to create the best quality product.To help the cows to eat more during the hot summer months,cows are fed beer or sake.The cows are raise in stalls to help creats fatty marbling,so they are taken outside for leisurely walks in the afternoon to get some sun and fresh air.
Farmers also rub the cows with some sake using straw hand brush. This helps balance the spreading of marble and it also get rid of lice and ticks.In order to keep the cows as relax as possible,it is said that some farmers play classical music for them.Beer,massages,afternoon strolls, mineral water,classic music...What a life!