08/11/2026
The way we handle cattle has a lasting impact not only on animal welfare, but also on safety, efficiency, and profitability.
Research and experience from cattle producers across the industry continue to show that low-stress handling practices can lead to calmer cattle, fewer injuries, improved performance, and a safer working environment for ranch families and employees.
“When cattle are handled gently and quietly, there are financial advantages,” says Stacy Davies of Roaring Springs Ranch. “There are fewer human injuries, fewer animal injuries, and less stress throughout the process.”
Calmer cattle also perform better. Reduced stress during handling, transportation, and processing can help decrease shrink, improve feed intake, reduce sickness, and support better gains after weaning. Studies have shown cattle handled with low-stress methods can have improved post-weaning performance compared to cattle handled through more stressful methods.
Low-stress handling starts early. Calves learn from their mothers and from their experiences with people. Giving cattle time to understand pressure and release, moving quietly, and creating positive experiences builds trust and makes future handling easier.
A few reminders for working cattle:
✔️ Stay calm and confident. Cattle respond to your body language.
✔️ Use positioning and movement to guide cattle rather than force.
✔️ Avoid yelling, rushing, and unnecessary pressure.
✔️ Remember that every interaction teaches cattle how to respond next time.
Good cattle handling isn’t about making cattle “pet-like.” It’s about building a herd that respects its handlers, stays safer to work with, and performs to its potential. The goal is simple: safer people, healthier cattle, and a more productive operation.
