Effect of injectable castration administered at feedlot entry on gain performance, behavior, testosterone production, and serum haptoglobin concentration in beef bulls

Authors

  • J. G. Powell Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • J. J. Ball Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • E. B. Kegley Department of Animal Science, University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, AR 72701
  • D. R. Cox Cowboy Animal Health, LLC, Plano, TX 75023
  • S. L. Roberts Department of Agricultural Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX 79106
  • J. T. Richeson Department of Agricultural Sciences, West Texas A&M University, Canyon, TX 79106

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/aabppro20173374

Keywords:

castration, beef cattle, injectable sterilization, zinc, feedlot, performance, behavior, testosterone, serum haptoglobin

Abstract

The USDA estimates 15 million castration procedures are performed on bull calves in the United States annually. These are performed to reduce aggressiveness and sexual activity, facilitate handling, prevent unwanted breeding, and improve the meat quality of steers. Currently, no commercially available injectable sterilization methods exist for beef cattle in the US. The objective of the current study was to evaluate the effect of a zinc solution as an injectable castration method when administered to beef bull calves at feedlot entry on performance, behavior, testosterone production, and serum haptoglobin concentration.

Cover image of the 50th Conference Proceedings: Text of "AABP Annual Conference" with the AABP logo superimposed over an interlocking 50. Yellow background.

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Published

2017-09-14

Issue

2017

Section

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