What do you do with scurs on a 4-H steer?

[mfranc]

I have two 4-H steers that have big scurs and I'm not sure if i should just cut them or if there are any other ways of removing them? 

 

[frostback]

Some of them you can just use a file and keep them down that way.

 

[CJC]

cosmetically dehorn them. whole lot better than cupping them in my opinion.

 

[obie105]

If they are just county fair steers leave them. I have seen plenty of steers with scurs. It also depends how big they are. Also are you sure they are scurs. Also how old and big is the animal if he is almost finished or are these new calves. Lot of deciding factors

 

[willow]

I have two 4-H steers that have big scurs and I'm not sure if i should just cut them or if there are any other ways of removing them? 

If the scurs are still pretty small the vet can do a dehorn and it is relatively simple and heals pretty quick no stitches or big process required (if they are still small).  I would take the time and do it even on a county fair steer.  Don't wait until the weather gets warm.

 

[DLD]

I have two 4-H steers that have big scurs and I'm not sure if i should just cut them or if there are any other ways of removing them? 

If they're big scurs, it's a safe bet they're at least somewhat square headed.  If you want them to look the best they can and be the most competitive they can be, I vote with CJC - have them cosmetically dehorned.  It'll cost a little more, but it's worth it if you want to compete.  Even if you don't want to do that, you should prob'ly have a vet remove them anyway.  The little flat, fingernail sized ones will usually stay that way, but if they're starting to grow like horns - even if they're just attatched to the skin, they'll just keep getting bigger.

 

[mfranc]

The scurs on the two steers are wiggly and about the size of a pinkie finger. They are 9 months old and still have a while before being shown.

 

[RSL Cattle Co.]

Have had luck using elastorator bands (for baby calves). It may take a bit of time for them to fall off, but does a nice job and is very inexpensive.

 

[CJC]

I have two 4-H steers that have big scurs and I'm not sure if i should just cut them or if there are any other ways of removing them? 

If they're big scurs, it's a safe bet they're at least somewhat square headed.  If you want them to look the best they can and be the most competitive they can be, I vote with CJC - have them cosmetically dehorned.  It'll cost a little more, but it's worth it if you want to compete.  Even if you don't want to do that, you should prob'ly have a vet remove them anyway.  The little flat, fingernail sized ones will usually stay that way, but if they're starting to grow like horns - even if they're just attatched to the skin, they'll just keep getting bigger.

Scurs or horns they are gone on our show cattle. If removed correctly the poll should come to a (are almost to) point.