How To Estimate the Weight of Cattle Using Measuring Tape

The weight of an animal is measured most reliably by using a weighing scale. Most cattle weighing scale can cost about $1000 and is out of reach for most farmers. The seasoned animal health practitioners can estimate the weight by observation and using the known average by age for a breed.

Weight bands is an alternative way of estimating the body weight of the cattle. These bands are commercially available with the weights printed on them. The band applies the high correlation between the circumference of the chest and body weight. The estimated weight can be within 5 per cent of the real weight with the right amount of tension on the tape.

An ordinary three meters tape measure is used if there is no weight band. When taking measurements, the tape is placed just behind the front legs under the body behind the elbow and all the way around to the point behind the shoulder blade. The circumference measurements in centimeters are converted to kilograms using a conversion table. Note that weight estimates using tapes is less accurate than the one obtained by the weighing.

Before measuring the cow, it is recommended that the animal be kept off feed and water for 12 hours before measuring. An overnight shrink is enough. Stand the animal with the head in normal position and with the four legs set squarely under the body. Pass the tape tightly around the body just back of the shoulders at the smallest circumference.



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