Aggressive Playfulness

[kingus]

Got a show steer that's been sick here the last month and 1/2 or so. Hadn't been able to work, walk or tie him for that reason. Well, he's come back around the last week or so and has that "I feel good" look on his face. Gets pretty aggressive at times. I think he's playing but sometimes makes me wonder. Was puppy dog tame before. Now wants to try and run around u kicking and bucking in the stall and running into the gates when its feeding time. You turn your back on 'em and he runs towards but stops about a 1' 1/2 away. Don't want to have to kick or hit 'em with a feed bucket, unless absolutely necessary. Can't tie him up for long periods of time for at least a few more weeks. Don't want to get to far into this give an inch take a mile scenario. Suggestions?

 

[shortybreeder]

When he acts up just give him a light smack on the nose to teach him not to act that way. Don't be abusive and repeatedly do it, but once is usually enough to make him think. It has worked well for my bull so far.

 

[kingus]

Thanks. His nose is normally about 3-4in off the ground coming at you. But will get 'er a whirl

 

[sj0515]

Our steer will act the same way when he has not been turned out in a few days. After we let him run a little he is fine.

 

[kingus]

Yes, that's probably what it is. He's been confined due to his illness. Still keeping a eye on him. Will turn him out in a day or so. Didn't think about that. Thanks

 

[RyanChandler]

I agree, sounds like calf could use some exercise.

What type of illness would prevent you from being able to tie him up?

 

[kingus]

I definitely agree with the non-exercise theory. He was diagnosed with Hardware disease. Got a penetration of his heart sack. Temps were way up for awhile. Was taking temps daily and giving nuflor gold every 4 days for a long while. If he was tied or walked any small amount of time he got labored quick. Finally got normal temps for the last week and a half just don't wanna push to hard and fast. The nose pop worked well this evening though it took about 5 of them to get the point across.

 

[Deleted member 20265]

Mine were getting that way but I was just being too nice and too much they were turning into pets.

 

[ilovecows]

I had this happen with one of my steers last year. Since he was sick he was kept indoors (still PLENTY of room though)when he was better I noticed this too. I believe that all his energy was stored up when he was sick and once he was feeling better it all just came out. What solved my problem was I put him out in a pasture when he could run and run and run with a couple of other calves for 3 days walking him back in on the 3nd night to his grain. The next day he was much more calm. He still misbehaved a little so I just gave him taps on the nose to keep him in check. Once a week I would put him out in the pasture for a day and 1/2 and it seemed to keep him pretty calm. I hope this works for you ;D