How to Band a Calf

Banding a bull calf requires castrating the animal to control its aggression as it ages into an adult. Banding also makes the calf's meat more tender because its body produces lower levels of hormones. Castration can be extremely painful for the calf; however, placing a tight band around the calf's testicles to reduce blood flow makes the process less uncomfortable.

Things You'll Need

  • Cattle squeeze shoot
  • Rope or leather strap
  • Rubber castration band
  • Elastrator
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Instructions

    • 1

      Secure the bull calf by loading it into a cattle squeeze shoot or by having two people hold subdue the calf on its side. Use rope or a leather strap as needed. Adolescent calves are typically aggressive and require a cattle squeeze shoot to be restrained. Hold the calf as still as possible throughout the banding process.

    • 2

      Load one rubber castration band onto an elastrator following the manufacturer's instructions for the product.

    • 3

      Grip the calf's testicles in one hand, and pull them down slightly away from the body. Secure both testicles without allowing one to slide back into the calf's torso. Do not pull too hard because that may startle the animal.

    • 4

      Place the castration band at the top of the calf's scrotum near the animal's torso using the elastrator. Release the band by pressing the side levers on the elastrator gently. Do not snap the band onto the animal's scrotum, which may cause pain and startle the calf. Ensure that both testicles are banded.

    • 5

      Release the calf from its restraints. The calf may be uncomfortable at this point and roll on the ground, kick at its stomach or bite at people or animals nearby. Allow the calf to become accustomed to the band before returning it to the rest of your cattle.