Dehorning Calves: Timing
08/19/2009 02:36PM
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The hard structure of the horn is actually produced by the surrounding skin, similar to the way a hoof grows from the coronet band. When the calf is young, the horn bud is free-floating and not attached to the skull. As the calf ages, the horn bud attaches to the skull and the horn begins to develop larger. Scientists from the University of Tennessee recommend dehorning calves at less than one month of age (before the horn budattaches to the skull) to reduce set-backs in health and performance. Dehorning older calves can lead to more infections, longer periods of weight loss and (in few instances) death from blood loss.
The optimum time to dehorn might be when it can be combined with other management practices. This will consolidate time and labor costs and can keep the total cost of dehorning at or below $5.00 per head. Season is another important factor in timing horn removal. Early spring and fall dehorning avoids fly season and associated infections.
Source: Justin Rhinehart – Beef Cattle Specialist; Mississippi State University Extension Service