Optimum age/weight to castrate at?

patjack · 18-02-2015 12:48pm #1

Hi all, have been searching on here and the web, but finding it difficult to get any solid information on what the optimum age and weight to castrate bulls destined for beef as steers. I currently have a batch of 8 month old bulls weighing approx 260 Kgs on average.

I am contemplating getting Vet to castrate soon I'd leave them as bulls for longer if there was any evidence to suggest that not castrating them until for argument sake, they are 10 months old results in better weight gain to that age etc.

Any ideas, or personal experiences?

patjack · 19-02-2015 9:45am

Anyone any opinions?

kay 9 · 19-02-2015 9:55am

They're supposed to thrive better upto 12 months as bulls. I'd leave them another while if you're intentions are to finish them

Count Mondego · 19-02-2015 9:59am

Pat,

You could do them now alright but I think you might have to get the vet as they're over 8 months. He'll have to do it under anesthetic I believe. Some lads do it up to 10 months without anesthetic though. The longer they have them the better for growth anyway. I'd ring your vet and ask his opinion on the best time.

Greysides has posted exact restrictions there recently, have a search.

patjack · 19-02-2015 10:34am

Thank Guys,

Yea intention is to finish them, I will give them another few months and then contact vet. Thanks for ye're helpful responses.

I don't know how much research has been done in this area, it seems as the best source of info on this topic is from the farmers mouth rather than official research.

Optimum age/weight to castrate at?

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