Effect of injectable castration regimen administered at branding on gain performance, testosterone production, and testicle atrophy in beef bull calves

Authors

  • J. G. Powell Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • P. A. Beck Southwest Research and Extension Center, University of Arkansas, Hope, AR 71801
  • E. B. Kegley Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • J. K. Apple Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • D. R. Cox Cowboy Animal Health, LLC, Plano, TX 75023

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20153629

Keywords:

castration, beef cattle, sterilization methods, zinc solution, weight, testosterone, testicle atrophy

Abstract

The USDA estimates 15 million castration procedures are performed annually on bull calves in the United States. Currently, no commercially available injectable sterilization methods exist for beef cattle in the US. Some zinc solutions have been utilized in other in other species, such as companion animals, as an injectable sterilization method. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of a zinc solution as an injectable castration method when administered at 3 dosages to beef bull calves at branding. The effect of the injectable castration method on weight gain, testosterone production, and testicle atrophy was measured.

Cover image of the 48th Conference Proceedings: An image of Dr. Fred Gingrich II dressed in a red shirt and overalls and standing in front of dairy cows in a barn interior. Yellow background.

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Published

2015-09-17

Issue

2015

Section

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