Perhaps one of the most important characteristics of the Afrikaner is its suitability for cross-breeding with exotic beef breeds. Another outstanding characteristic is the Afrikaner’s resistance to most of the country’s endemic diseases, such as redwater, heartwater and gall sickness. The cattle are well adapted to veld conditions in the warm, arid and extensive grazing areas of the country, and react well to intensive feeding. The short, strong, shiny hair discourages tick attacks. Its meat is of high quality and tender, tasty and succulent.