Immunocastration technologies to improve the welfare and productivity of beef cattle

Authors: Eckery DC, Walker K, D'Occhio M
Publication: Proceedings of the Australian Veterinary Association (AVA) Annual Conferences, Volume 2014 AVA Annual Conference, Perth, Issue Cattle/ Industry, May 2014
Publisher: Australian Veterinary Association

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Abstract: Castration is a routine practice in the management of bulls in both intensive and extensive production systems. Castrated bulls have reduced aggressive and sexual behaviour and they also show altered growth and carcass characteristics compared with entire bulls. Castration can be associated with negative production and welfare outcomes and alternatives that do not involve a surgical procedure and/or stress would be preferred. Alternatives to castration would, however, need to be practical and effective and have the same production and behaviour outcomes as castrated bulls.

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