Xylazine sedation and gunshot for depopulation of cattle

Authors

  • Christy J. Hanthorn Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology, Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506
  • Michael W. Sanderson Center for Outcomes Research and Epidemiology, Department of Diagnostic Medicine and Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol53no2p166-168

Keywords:

depopulate, depopulation, cattle, calves, feedlot, euthanasia

Abstract

A depopulation protocol utilizing intramuscular sedation with xylazine followed by euthanasia via gunshot was evaluated for effectiveness and practicality in a group of 43 feedlot calves in a commercial feedlot setting. Sedation and euthanasia were successful in all 43 calves. The time required to complete the procedure was 46 minutes from the first xylazine injection to the last gunshot. Utilization of this depopulation method demonstrates that cattle in a commercial feedlot can be euthanized in a rapid manner that is practical and efficient, while also maintaining an acceptable level of animal welfare. Expansion to larger herds, including the total population of a large feedlot, may still be challenging. The use of this depopulation method should be considered for future livestock emergencies.

Cover image of Volume 53, No. 2 of the Bovine Practitioner: a photo in winter of a single black cow standing alongside a fence at the edge of a few bare trees and a windmill. In the distance, you can see a pond with other cattle grouped around it.

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Published

2019-06-01

How to Cite

Hanthorn, C. J., & Sanderson, M. W. (2019). Xylazine sedation and gunshot for depopulation of cattle. The Bovine Practitioner, 53(2), 166–168. https://doi.org/10.21423/bovine-vol53no2p166-168

Issue

Vol. 53, No. 2 (2019 Summer)

Section

Articles

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