Ref Code: CAT29

Category:

Teaching - 2

Research - 4

Objective

To confine cattle in pens.

Alternatives to animal use for teaching

Lecture, video

Details of procedure

Animals must have sufficient space to minimise stress and be able to move around and lie down with comfort. Horned animals will require about 10% more space than dehorned animals. A 500kg steer requires a pen at least 1700mm x 2400mm, which allows it to turn around and lie down with its head tucked up to its flank.

Clean water, regular (twice-a-week) cleaning and good ventilation is required for all cattle, and if the pens are uncovered, the ambient temperature ought not exceed 32^oC for Bos taurus cattle and 36^oC for high content Bos indicus cattle.

Drugs, chemicals, or biological agents

Nil

Impact of procedure on the wellbeing of animal(s)

Depending on floor material and diet, cattle may succumb to ‘sore’ or ‘hot’ feet and should be observed for any deterioration. They should be removed from the pen to a grassy paddock if this occurs.

Reuse and repeated use

Cattle may be reused, providing they do not become distressed.

Care of animal(s) during/after procedure

Normal husbandry procedures.

Pain relief measures

Nil

Qualifications, experience or training necessary to perform this procedure

Demonstrator: Experience with the procedure.

Students: Experience with cattle handling