By Umar Nsubuga
Peter Mubiru, a veterinary doctor says dehorning is better done when the animals are still young as the surgery is simpler.
He says it causes minor trauma to the animal and haemorrhage is minimised too.
According to Mubiru, there are several advantages of dehorning cattle, and these include preventing or reducing incidences of horn attacks against other animals, it helps in safety for herders, improves handling, especially of dairy cattle and increases marketability among food lot animals.
“In most cases, dehorning improves the appearance of the animal and reduces stress during movement,” he advises.
According to Mubiru, if you are dehorning fairly older animals, you are advised to do so under anaesthesia to reduce pain.