The battle between self-catch and manual livestock head catches has been ongoing for years. People on both sides of the argument swear by the livestock head catch they are using, but as the industry shifts towards low-stress cattle handling, it may be time to consider a new way of managing your cattle. Before you make a decision, let’s dive into the facts about the different livestock head catch options available to ranchers so you can make an informed choice.
What is a Livestock Head Catch?
A livestock head catch, also known as a cattle head gate, is a device used to secure a cow’s head to allow handlers and veterinarians access to the animal for various tasks. Livestock head catches are usually found on a squeeze chute, which provides additional safety, but can also be mounted on adjustable cattle alleys.
What is an Auto-Adjusting Livestock Head Catch?
An Auto-Adjusting Livestock Head Catch, also known as a self-catch, is designed for the animal to catch themselves by hitting the shoulders on the head catch to activate a mechanism that closes around their neck. Self-catches have multiple settings to catch cows and calves of varying sizes.
Pros of a Self-Catch
- "Self-Catch": The name may be misleading as constant adjustments are required by the handler.
- Affordable: Self-catch livestock head catches are usually more affordable than manual ones but may come with design drawbacks.
Cons of a Self-Catch
- Distraction: Common practice of cattle exiting through side gates can lead to bad habits.
- High-Stress: Can lead to high stress levels in cattle and potential negative impacts on health and meat quality.
- Bruising: The force required to close a self-catch can cause deep bruising in the shoulders of cattle.
What is a Manual Livestock Head Catch?
A Manual Livestock Head Catch gives the handler complete control over the head catch, providing a quieter and less stressful handling experience for cattle.
Pros of a Manual Catch
- Low-Stress: Manual head catches have improved over time, working with animal science to keep stress low.
- True One-Man Operation: Allows for easy and efficient handling without the need for constant adjustments.
- Wide Open: Manual head catches open wider than self-catches, allowing for easier cattle movement.
Cons of a Manual Catch
- Not All Models are Made Equal: Quality varies among manufacturers, requiring thorough research for the right choice.
- Learning Curve: Tends to have a slight learning curve for operators but offers faster processing once mastered.
Choosing the right style of livestock head catch is a crucial step in the buying process to ensure the welfare of your cattle. If you’re still unsure about which equipment is best suited for your needs, check out the recommended blogs for further guidance.
Did we miss a key difference between self-catch and manual livestock head catches? Share your insights with us in the comments below. Remember, when it comes to handling livestock, the well-being and stress levels of your animals should be a top priority. Embracing new methods that promote low-stress handling can lead to a healthier and more productive herd.
For more informative content and updates, subscribe to Cattle Weekly’s newsletter and stay connected with the latest advancements in livestock handling practices.
As Dana Charban wisely said, "As a small-town girl from rural Manitoba, Dana Charban grew up around agriculture and farming her entire life." Dana is an expert in content strategies for Arrowquip, bringing valuable insights into the world of livestock handling practices. Contact Dana Charban for more information on livestock handling or to share your own experiences and knowledge in the field.
