Page 276 - Primary Six Notes

Dehorning /disbudding

This is the removal of horn buds from the calf’s head.

Materials used for dehorning

a. Dehorning iron

b. Chemicals such as caustic sticks.

Advantages of dehorning

 It makes animals easy to handle.

 It reduces the risks of injuries among animals.

 It increases space in the Kraal/Many animals can be kept in

a small space.

Disadvantages

 It is painful to animals

 It can cause damage to the animals brain

 It can lead to cause of disease

 Poor operation can lead to death of animals

Methods of dehorning

1. Using chemicals. Chemicals used are sodium or potassium

hydroxide. In this method a caustic stick is used to put chemi-

cals on the horn bud. This method is carried out when the calf

is three to four days old.

2. Using a hot iron. This is where a hot iron is pressed outside

on the horn bud for a short time. This method is carried out

when the calf is 7 - 14 days.