Beef Cattle Handling and Behaviour Flashcards
What is the main purpose of horns and head in cattle?
To charge.
How do cattle typically kick when aggressive?
With hind legs to the side.
What type of aggression is related to territory or mating?
Territorial/Sex related.
What is a fear-induced aggressive behavior in cattle?
Behavior from confined or cornered animals that feel threatened.
What can trigger organic aggression in cattle?
A broad range of health issues, such as stress, frustration, pain, or brain tumors.
What is mock fighting in cattle?
Play behavior to refine their motor skills.
What does instrumental aggression refer to?
Aggression that is reinforced in dangerous situations.
What is the black cave effect in cattle?
Cattle may refuse to enter a dark building.
What are some causes of aggression in farm species?
- Mixing of unfamiliar animals
- Competition over food
- Spatial factors and overcrowding
- Frustration
- Fear
- Pain
What are indicators of dangerous situations in cattle?
- Ear positions
- Head and tail positions
- Pawing the ground
- Erratic movements
- Tail flicking
What vocalization may indicate distress in cattle?
Bellowing.
What should you avoid to recognize dangerous situations in cattle?
Isolated animals, handling calves, animals in pain.
What feeding behavior do animals exhibit when they know herbage is limited?
They graze at faster rates.
What does feeding frequency influence in cattle?
Stable consumption.
What factors influence feeding behavior in cattle?
- Irregular schedules
- Delays
- Health issues
What is the definition of hierarchy in social behavior?
An order of individuals or groups based upon some ability or characteristic.
What is the triangular hierarchy most common in?
Social structures.
What are affiliative behaviors?
Social interactions that reinforce social bonds or are mutually beneficial.
What does allogrooming refer to?
Mutual grooming among animals.
What is a recommended practice during capture and containment of cattle?
Be patient and don’t rush.
What is the significance of space between animals in a chute?
It reflects their comfort and non-desire to bunch.
What should tools used to move animals not be used for?
To hit, prod, or touch the animals.
What is considered unacceptable treatment during animal handling?
Forceful use of the tail that results in injury.
What does immobility signify in female cattle?
Receptivity to courtship and copulatory attempts.
