It’s no secret humans have their way of inflicting pain upon cows for marking or keeping purposes. We brand, castrate, and over-milk cows to reap benefits in farming. But just what is a nose ring all about? What purpose does it serve?
Classically, you might see cows and bulls depicted as having nose rings. But realistically, what are these rings for and are they painful for the cow? The truth is that rings are all about control. Let’s delve into why they’re used and whether they’re really necessary.
The Purpose of Cow and Bull Nose Rings
Cows and bulls wear these basic brass, aluminum, or stainless-steel rings in their septum. When placed in the sensitive part of the nose, you can guide the animal or regain control when they get frisky.
Process of Cattle Nose Piercing
The age of piercing depends on the purpose it serves. If you’re trying to get a calf to stop nursing a mother, these rings are inserted when the animal is still very young. Most cows receive their ring between the ages of 9–12 months of age.
Length of Nose Piercing Wear
If the ring is being used to wean a calf, it can be removed thereafter. Often, these only need to stay on for a few weeks.
However, in most cases, bull rings stay in for life. They are notoriously unpredictable. They are simply a safety mechanism put in place to protect handlers, as there’s no way to ensure one can successfully tame a bull.
How Cattle Noses Are Pierced
Not anyone can go in with a hot needle and pierce a cow’s nose. This process needs to be performed by a professional. A vet will take the appropriate utensils for piercing the septum portion of the nose. This area is highly sensitive, making it perfect to use in a situation where control is warranted.
If you are an experienced person, you might be able to get self-piercing rings available on the market to perform this yourself. If you feel apprehensive, don’t hesitate to call for help with the process.
Benefits and Concerns of Nose Piercings for Bovines
If you’re trying to get an animal to do what you want, nose rings are very beneficial. After all, just one grasp and pull can change their whole direction. But is it beneficial for the animal?
After a few weeks, the bull or calf barely notices the piercing is there. Farmers only apply slight pressure when necessary, as this is a tender area. If even a small amount of pressure is applied, bulls can go into a submissive state.
Ultimately, it has no major negative impact on the bull, and it protects anyone handling them as a potential line of defense. But only you can decide if this precautionary method is something you want to try with your herd.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are Nose Piercings Necessary?
While it might seem inhumane, this practice was started to protect the lives of caretakers. Bulls outweigh a full-grown man easily, so they can be very hard to control. Add in the testosterone and aggression, and you can have a real problem.
Even the most modest of bulls can turn without many indications. If anything were to happen to set them off, the nose ring might be your only point of defense to cool the situation.
Ultimately, it’s up to the individual person whether your bulls or cows should have nose rings.
How many owners describe this piercing would be like taking a misbehaving child by the ear. Are you inflicting slight pain to get your point across? Yes, you are. But obedience follows. It’s just painful enough to be convincing, but not enough to do any real damage.
How Common Are Nose Rings for Bulls?
Nose rings are highly common in bulls—and most cattle shows absolutely require bulls to have them.
Is a Nose Ring Piercing Painful?
If you’ve ever known anyone who has had their septum pierced, they’d probably all agree that it isn’t the most pleasurable of sensations. However, it heals quickly when done properly. So, within a few short weeks, all will be well and use will hopefully be seldom.
Final Thoughts
Even though the thought of having a septum piercing for control sounds cruel, it’s crucial. Because bulls are so massive and notoriously aggressive, they can put anyone around them in danger if there are no immediate reinforcements.
Try to remember that these piercings heal within just a few short weeks. Even though it’s a sensitive area, it doesn’t cause major pain to the animal.
- Next on your reading list: Why Do Bulls Have Nose Rings?
Featured Image Credit by: Jai79, Pixabay