Cow Calf: To Castrate Or Not To Castrate?
A survey of Oklahoma farmed animal markets suggest that bull calves are less expensive than steers of similar weight; however other studies suggest that the lower cost per pound of bulls is outweighed by the additional cost of “decreased performance and increased sickness.”
Studies suggest that bull calves are sold at lower prices than steers of similar weight, consequently resulting in discounted prices. As the animals get older, bulls that weigh more have been found to bring in a lower price per head than steers.
Additional studies have found that the lower cost per pound associated with the purchase price of bulls is outweighed by other costs. For example, medical costs were higher for bulls than for steers. As value becomes more important, producers are more likely to receive lower prices for leaving male calves un-castrated.