This is a subscriber-only article
With the vast majority of cattle now housed, it is worthwhile clipping the back, neck, tail and head of calves and stores.
Clipping cattle has multiple benefits. Firstly, it will prevent cattle from sweating in sheds. As cattle are cooler, they are at lower risk of developing respiratory problems.
Secondly, clipping cattle reduces the problem with lice once housed, although it is still recommended to treat animals for biting and sucking lice.
Thirdly, applying a pour-on worm and fluke product to the backs of cattle which have been clipped will increase the efficacy of the treatment.
Finally, clipping tails will help to keep animals cleaner once housed.
Clipping
When clipping animals, the wider the strip, the better. Aim to clip an area around six inches either side of the animal’s spine.
Clipping around the neck and top of the head is good practice, but only do so if animals can be securely restrained in a head locking gate. Finally, clip the tail to prevent faeces from sticking to it.
SHARING OPTIONS: