8 Essential Show Cattle Tips

5. Properly Time Old Hair Removal

Calf hair grows in 90-day cycles, so timing is everything when it comes to making sure that your calf’s hair is the right length when your show date arrives. For example, if your show date is in June, you may want to remove all old hair by the middle of March.

6. Hoof Trimming

Hoof trimming is something that you want to have done by an expert. A mistake in trimming or cleaning your calf’s hooves could turn into a serious medical issue. Ask around your area or network with other show exhibitors to find a good hoof trimmer in your area.

7. Walk Into a Staggered Position

When you show your animal, you want to minimize the amount of show stick use involved for such things as feet placement. You can accomplish this by teaching your calf to walk in a staggered position. As you practice at home, take a few steps backward as you look at the calf’s back feet and then walk them into a staggered position. You should then only have to adjust a front foot instead of wasting time shuffling several feet with a show stick.

8. Keep the Animal Calm During Exhibition

By working with your calf at home, you are setting them up to take your cues and remain calm in a show situation. Always arrive early so that you can get into position without being rushed. Walk slowly and calmly at all times and use the show stick to gently scratch your calf’s belly while standing still to keep it calm.