The use of mechanical restraints for routine handling and treatment of cattle requires an understanding and application of behavioral principles to ensure safe and humane handling of cattle [1].
As cattle move through a chute system toward a restraint such as a squeeze chute, they can be kept calm by [2]:
- Ensuring visual contact with other herd members
- Avoiding loud noises, high frequency noises, and hissing sounds, which startle cattle
- Avoiding shadows and stark contrasts in light and dark, which cause cattle to balk
- Applying even, optimal pressure with restraints, which induces a calming effect
A catalogue of cattle handling equipment from Hi-Hog Farm and Ranch Equipment Ltd., designed with cattle behavior in mind.
A facility design guide created by Hi-Hog Farm and Ranch Equipment Ltd.
Example drawings and models for handling systems including cattle corrals, stockyards, and races, including reference research articles by Dr. Temple Grandin.
Further Reading
Research Gaps
Product/Service Gaps
References
[1] T. Grandin, ‘Restraint of Livestock’. Mar. 2000. Accessed: Aug. 19, 2022. [Online]. Available: https://www.grandin.com/restrain/intro.rest.html
[2] University Veterinarian and Animal Resources, ‘SOP: Cattle Restraint’. Virginia Tech, Dec. 12, 2017. Accessed: Aug. 20, 2022. [Online]. Available: https://ouv.vt.edu/content/dam/ouv_vt_edu/sops/large-animal/sop-bovine-restraint.pdf
