Side Effects of Testosterone on Beef Cattle
The use of testosterone as a supplement in beef cattle is a cost-effective way to maximize weight gain and profit. There are only a few side effects associated with testosterone treatment. Testosterone is a natural hormone produced in bulls testes. This hormone increases weight gain and controls the animal's sexual drive. In a castrated bull, the lack of testosterone slows the steers weight gain and development. Some farmers choose to give their cattle a testosterone supplement to recover the benefit of fast weight gain.
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Weight
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Extra weight gain is the reason why most farmers use testosterone. Beef cattle implanted with testosterone tend to put on weight faster than non-treated cattle. Treated cattle need less time and feed to reach market weight. When a farmer spends less money on feed, his profits margin goes up.
Mood
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According to Dr. James Baker, DVM and cattle rancher, testosterone replacement in steers can lead to increased aggressiveness. Dr. Baker says testosterone will not turn a gentle steer mean, but he has observed an increase in inter-herd fighting. Testosterone is the hormone that controls a bull's sex drive. Supplementing a castrated animal with testosterone can restore his need to fight for dominance.
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Prolapses
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Both vaginal and rectal prolapses are reported side effects of testosterone implants. A prolapse is the condition by which the vagina or anus turns outward and comes out of the body. Testosterone may not be the lone cause of these prolapses' Other factors, such as improper implanting, feed molds and some legume feeds containing phytoestrogens may contribute to the problem.
Physical Problems
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Sunken loins, high tail head, and underdevelopment are rare side effects of testosterone. These physical abnormalities are rare. With sunken loins and a raised tail head, a perfectly healthy steer will look underweight and sickly.
Injection Site
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Problems at the injection site are the most common problems with testosterone implants. A normal side effect is injection-site swelling. This can be a minor issue that will resolve itself in two to three days. Other problems include abscesses. When the injection site becomes infected, an abscess forms. These abscesses are painful and require immediate treatment. The leading cause of injection-site problems is improper implanting of the testosterone pellet and failure to properly disinfect the implant site.
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