Something I found to be very helpful....
If you feed the cows or sheep three items every time (even if it only shows them wanting one or two items), they will produce much faster. Keep giving them three items over and over, and you'll see the difference in how quickly the milk and shearing become ready. Have fun! P.S. I LOVE this game! I'm on my fourth farm. It's a new game every time with every layout! :)
Squeela