Green Acres

Practical Considerations for Bovine Castration

The following article was written by Rosslyn Biggs, DVM, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension Beef Cattle Specialist.

Approaches to castration should be made with operational objectives and animal welfare in mind. Producers should consult with their herd veterinarian for a castration protocol that includes consideration for animal age, facilities available, castration method, and pain control.

Calves castrated at younger ages—ideally under three months—generally experience less stress, recover quicker, and have fewer complications. Unle...