Why Spay Heifers?
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro19867599Keywords:
price spread, steers, heifers, market heifer, price differential, SpayAbstract
The price spread between steers and heifers is the most important reason buyers purchase market heifers. To illustrate this price difference consider the following information summarized from a marketing study reported in 1979 comparing steer and heifer prices:1
1. The average heifer calf was worth about $58.00 less than the average steer calf due to weight and price.
2. Feeder heifers sold for about 15% less than feeder steers of similar quality.
3. Fat heifers sold for approximately 4% less than fat steers of comparative quality.
4. Heifer carcasses were valued at approximately 5% less than steer carcasses.
This price differential is a strong indication that most stocker and feeder cattle buyers have a strong preference for steers. A further look at market prices also shows that slaughter steers consistently sell for more per hundred weight than comparative fat heifers. Why?
